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MV appoints EMS Pocket Sized Alebrijes board of directors
Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
The Mount Vernon City Council appointed Dick George to a three-year term, Rose Hedge to a two-year term and Alex Kurjatko to a one-year term to the Lisbon-Mount Vernon EMS district board of directors representing the City of Mount Vernon. Council member Paul Tuerler abstained from the vote. Tuerler had previously moved to appoint Dick Geoge to a three-year term, Michelle Zaruba to a two-year term and Rose Hedge to a one-year term, aligned with the votes the top three had received in the election back in September. “It is our best interest to follow the role of the voters,” Tuerler said. Council member Craig Engel approved that original motion, with his difference being on the appointed terms. Engel made a friendly motion to change the terms for Hedge and Zaruba to the commission based on the interest for terms each had asked for. Tuerler denied that motion. Council members Sherene Hansen Player, Mark Andresen and Scott Rose each brought up issues with the write-in process for the election. “If all of the names had been out there for everyone to have when they had voted, I would be receptive to this motion,” Hansen-Player said. “That wasn’t the case. A lot of the slate was heard by word of mouth and social media, and not everyone had the same names shared. It wasn’t a usual election, and I think we should consider all five presented to us.” “We weren’t all sure who was interested,” Andresen said. “We have five great candidates and I don’t agree with the top three as presented as the ones I want to represent the city. I think this deserves more consideration.” Rose said given the nature of the election, he was more reticent to go with a pure top three vote. When Tuerler’s motion was put up for a vote, he and Engel voted in favor, with the rest of council voting nay. Hansen-Player recommended the council present their top three candidates from the five, and then appoint terms after a slate was presented. Tuerler and Engel presented George, Hedge and Zaruba as their slate. Hansen-Player presented Kurjatko, Morrical and George as her slate, citing Morrical’s work on PTO and Mount Vernon Fine Arts Association, George on Mount Vernon Lions Club and Kurjatko’s medical expertise as reason. Andresen presented George because of his fiduciary background, Hedges because of her experience, and Kurjatko for his medical expertise. Rose proposed Kurjatko, Morrical and George. That left the final slate as George, Hedges and Kurjatko having the most nominations. MV CITY COUNCIL | 2
Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
The Pocket Sized Art Club worked on making alebrijes for this month’s art project. Alebrijes are brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures, usually made of paiper maiche or wood. Children’s librarian Meredith Nehring explained that the art form was popularized by Pedro Linares Lopez, who created the dreamlike creatures. The pieces of art are sometimes associated with Dia de Muertos, and were some of the creatures seen in the Pixar movie “Coco.” Because they are fantasy creatures, they could be whatever was in the imagination of the artists. “The thing with art is you just need to keep going, even when it doesn’t look like you imagined,” Nehring said. “Keep working on the piece and adding to it.” And because these were being
made pocket sized and able to fit in the Pocket-Sized Art museum at the library for display this month, the materials used were changed to pipe cleaners and tape. Some of the alebrijes turned out very small to begin with, and artists were encouraged to wrap and add more pipe cleaners to have a better base for their tape finish. Emily made a unicorn, with a rainbow mane and wings, using different pieces of tape to form the rainbow. One participant made a porcupine, opting not to wrap her piece in tape to get across the poky spines and colorful nature of the creature. Additionally, participants were able to color with markers their own two dimensional alebrijes to display or take home with them as well. Lilly was excited to show off the Jack-A-Lope she created, painting a rabbit wood ornament and then threading pipe cleaners through a hole near the ears to represent the antlers. More than 20 participants tackled
either the coloring of a two-dimensional alebrijes or a Pocket Sized alebrijes to be on display.
Other things of note at the library Looking for a Halloween costume this year? The Lisbon Public Library’s Halloween costume library is once again open for the year. Check out a costume anytime between Oct. 5 and Oct. 31 during the regular library hours. Costumes come in sizes of infant through adults. On Monday, Nov. 2, the library will host a Dia de Muertos celebration from 5-6 p.m. Enjoy pan de Muerto (a sweet bread) and hot chocolate, work on crafts, hear stories about the holiday and help construct a community ofrenda created in memory of lost loved ones. See page 3 for more Pocket Sized Art Club photos
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MV CITY COUNCIL
after that the sidewalks do not extend to this new business,” ( ) Ross said. “The curb cuts are definitely apparent around the parking lot entrance that a sidewalk should exist. Citizen asks about Rachel Street City administrator Chris Nosbisch said that sidewalks lack of sidewalk being completed was the city’s While Kwik Star has been drawing in a lot of oversight. customers since it opened Thursday, Sept. 24, a “We did require Kwik Star to include a sidewalk Mount Vernon citizen drew an issue to the city’s access in their plans,” Nosbisch said. “We didn’t attention – lack of sidewalk access at the Rachel see that wasn’t completed before releasing the Street on Kwik Star’s side. Rachel Street project.” “You can cross the street and cross Hwy. 1, but Nosbisch said that the city will look to have a from 1
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sidewalk extended to at least Kwik Star’s parking lot to give access, but it will likely not be installed before winter. Ross also asked about the sidewalks along Virgil Avenue, which she utilizes as many as she can to get access to the Rachel Street sidewalks. “Virgil is not a highly trafficked road, like some others in Mount Vernon, so it’s fine, but it would be nice to see those gaps fixed as well,” Ross said. Nosbisch said that would take more time, as those were supposed to develop as more businesses/development occurred.
Amendment 1 discussed at Voices United Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
Former legislator David Osterberg presented on the constitutional amendment on ballots in this election cycle at Voices United Wednesday, Oct. 7. More than 50 people were in attendance for the event. Osterberg started his presentation by giving background on what has led the state to this amendment. The legislature has to pass action on adopting language for a constitutional amendment in two sessions between election cycles, and the bill to place this on the ballot was approved in January of 2025 by Gov. Kim Reynolds. Osterberg explained that because of tax cuts that the legislature has passed in 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024, Iowa’s tax rates have been significantly reduced for a flat rate. In getting Iowa to a flat rate tax, Osterberg said that has created a sharp decline in revenues and not made reductions to expenditures. The Fiscal Services Division reported roughly $8.4 billion in revenue for the state in fiscal year 2027, against expenditures of $9.6 billion. That, Osterberg said, is a $1.2 billion shortfall, being backed up by one-time monies in the state surplus. “The state may have $5.7 billion in surplus
revenues at the moment, but you continue to budget with one time money with a $1.2 billion deficit, it doesn’t take long before you end up in the hole,” Osterberg said. Osterberg went on to explain that the tax cuts have benefited the top one percent the most in the state, reducing their tax bills, and those cuts also impact funding of many items in the state. Areas impacted by the cuts include the funding of schools and higher education. Enter Amendment 1, which sets restrictions on when taxes can be raised to requiring a supermajority (more than two-thirds) in both the House and Senate to make any tax increase happen. Osterberg explained that it would only take 36 people in the House and 17 in the Senate to stop any increases to taxes. With revenues in a deficit, the only way for legislators to get out of what has been passed would be to increase taxes or make massive funding cuts in the coming years, and this amendment Osterberg said would tie the hands of legislature where a minority party can stop any action on raising taxes. Osterberg invited people to discuss why they would be for or against the amendment in small groups. The majority off speakers at the event noted they were against, citing the impact this would have on local schools, city governments and even giving more power to a majority of leg-
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Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
David Osterberg presented information on Amendment 1 at Voices United Wednesday, Oct. 7.
islators to set what is accomplished in the state. Osterberg said that if this bill passes, Iowans may see more fees for services passed on to them, either from local government or schools, as funding would be impacted. An attendee asked what happens if the amendment fails in the election. Osterberg said that would set the bill back to be advanced through the legislature in two more sessions before it shows up in an election again.
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First Science Café of season held at Fuel
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Pesticides, PFAs and nitrates impact on water the topic
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Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
Science Café returned to Fuel Art and Espresso Tuesday, Oct. 6, with a presentation on Nitrates, Pesticides and PFAs impact on water. Dr. Greg LeFevre, Elliot Andersen and Alyssa Mianecki presented to roughly 25 in attendance for an event some Cornell College students called one of the favorite events that happens in the community. Their first notes for anyone in the community of Mount Vernon – your water and aquifer are very, very safe. “Mount Vernon draws from a very deep aquifer, so when it comes to nitrate infiltration, Mount Vernon doesn’t have to worry too much, as it takes a lot to get to your water source,” Andersen said. Other communities, like those along the Cedar River and Des Moines River who use shallower spots to draw from the river as their water source are what is making nitrate levels bigger news. Especially when nitrate levels have been going higher for each waterway. The levels in the rivers have been above the federal drinking regulations of 10 parts per million to reduce impacts on health, including blue baby syndrome. Andersen said that nitrate is one of the harder substances to take out of water, and that just meeting the 10 parts per million level still
Volume 157 I Issue 42
mvlsun.com Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
Dr. Greg LeFevre, Alyssa Mianecki and Elliot Andersen presented at Science Cafe at Fuel Art and Espresso Tuesday, Oct. 6. exposes people to a number of health issues from consuming water with that high of nitrate level every year. “The science has not settled enough evidence to show with confidence what is actually happening,” Andersen said. Andersen said that over the past 13 years, the state has been focusing on reducing nitrate in water. The trend shows that isn’t reducing as much as they’d have hoped. “Nitrate is one of those elements that changes year to year,” Andersen said. “The more rainfall we get, the more nitrates wash into creeks, streams and rivers.” Andersen said that nitrates started becoming an issue in Iowa’s waterways in the 1960s and 1970s, and have remained pretty constant since that point. “They’ve not gotten consistently worse the last 10 or 20 years,” Andersen said. “But they’ve also
not shown a significant dip since the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy was first implemented in 2013, either.” LeFevre spoke about pesticides impact in water. When it comes to pesticides, they can be found in rivers, streams and creeks, but they’re most often found in rural wells. “These items are far more mobile in water like streams and rivers,” LeFevre said. These chemicals these days have been designed to target specific insects and items they are looking to eradicate, and the advice many farmers are now getting is targeted application of herbicide or insecticides is better than a broad range application. But rural wells, because the water doesn’t move from them once it is in there are more susceptible to having pesticides. “It’s far cheaper to test for things like nitrogen
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than it is for any of the pesticides,” LeFevre said. LeFevre also said pesticides were designed with good intentions, to eradicate items like insects that are detrimental to crops. But they are also not tested in a number of water sources, with only atrazine being reported in Mount Vernon’s Water quality report. Mianecki spoke about the dangers of PFAs. What makes PFAs so dangerous is they are a human made compound, formed of the bonding of poly fluorine and carbon compounds. “They take forever to break down because they have no known bacteria that feeds on them,” Mianecki said. “They also move through the environment differently.” They are prevalent in a lot of different items as well, from carpets, clothing and even fire fighting foam. They become an issue when it comes to the environment, as animals or humans consume them, they accumulate in blood streams. “There have been warnings in states where known PFAs have been in the environment to avoid hunting deer who may have had exposure,” Mianecki said. If people are concerned about PFAs in their drinking water, Mianecki said that they are easily filtered out with something like a
ART CLUB from 1
Photos by Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
Front page: Emily and Nina work on their alebrijes. Right: Meredith Nehring and Emma talk about the different alebrijes that Meredith's daughter Amelia has helped create. Below left: Lilly admires her woodcut painting of a jack-a-lope, with pipe cleaners coming out near the top as the antlers. Below right: An artist working on their mini-porcupine made out of pipe cleaners.
NEWS
carbon filter. An attendee asked if any PFAs are naturally occurring. Mianecki said no, the merging of fluorine and carbon is a man made bond, and why it is so hard to break. Another attendee asked if manganese is related to magnesium. LeFevre said no, they are different, and you would know if you have a manganese issue, as dark particles would flow in water when flushed. “That’s one thing I have discovered, is that if you have a leak, pipes are usually leaking clean water in,” LeFevre said. “If you don’t have a leak, that’s when you will see dirtier water in the system. That’s because the system is kept under pressure.” An attendee asked if we can tie increased cancer rates to the increase of nitrates in the water. Andersen said that can not be proved currently. “Nitrates are not the only pollutant that causes cancer,” Andersen said. “We don’t have enough confidence in our research that we can say how big of a part of cancer nitrates are.” When it comes to the high nitrate levels, a questioner asked if that should be something to be concerned about in swimming or outdoor recreation. Andersen said the impact of nitrates comes from drinking the water, not swimming in
impacted waters. What you have to watch out for in those streams with higher nitrates is the presence of phosphorus or algae blooms, which can be dangerous to recreation. “If there’s a lot of algae blooms in the water, don’t swim in that water,” Andersen said. An attendee asked why PFAs are such a concern. Mianecki said that unlike with nitrates, you can’t dilute them by adding more water. Destroying PFAs is also very, very expensive to do. Mianecki said that’s why it’s mostly done at locations like military bases, as they have the budgets to do so. An attendee asked how they can get legislature to vote or support this issue. LeFevre said continuing to bring it up and discuss it as a priority for you makes that happen. “I’ve lived in Iowa for 10 years, and I have never heard more conversations about water quality than I have this year,” LeFevre said. “Keep letting legislators know this is important to you.” Attendee Laura Krouse, representing Mount Vernon’s Women for Water encouraged the Cornell College students in attendance to make sure they are registered to vote and vote in this election.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | 3
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Contributed photo
Rachel Yeater and her family, husband James, including two sets of twins. Name: Rachael Yeater Job: Pet CT technologist at PCI for the last four years. Age: 42 Education: Attended North Cedar High School in Clarence, Iowa. Attended multiple colleges but received a bachelor's degree in radiation sciences at the University of Iowa. Also received a certificate and a license in nuclear medicine. Family: Four kids, two sets of twins; one pair is nine, and the other is 14. Childhood hometown: Clarence, Iowa How long have you lived in Mt. Vernon: 13 years Favorite part of the job: Being able to get patients answers about things that are concerning. . .just trying to take care of them and trying to make them feel better as much as possible. Most challenging part of the job: Her patients are all cancer patients seen on a repeated basis. Getting to know the patients and them passing away is difficult. Hobbies/interests: Running around and watching her kids do their hobbies. Enjoys spending time with family and watching Iowa games. . .doing the simple things. Favorite book(s): A part of a book club with friends and usually reads a book or two a month if possible. Hard to pick a favorite but enjoys reading in general. Favorite TV show(s): Doesn't get to watch much TV but used to enjoy “New Girl” and “Parks and Recreation.” Favorite sports team(s): Follows Hawkeye sports throughout the year and enjoys watching the Indiana Fever games. Favorite food: Depends on the mood but loves sweets. She loves to be served a hot roast beef sandwich and mashed potatoes at home. Favorite vacation spot: Traveled to Cozumel, Mexico recently with her husband. Has taken drivable vacations with her kids in the past. Taking her kids to the Walt Disney World Resort is a highlight. Greatest role model: The type of person who can not pick a favorite or greatest on anything. . .has different role models based on the different aspects of life, such as work and family. Favorite quotation: Her mantra after having two sets of twins is ‘the days are long but the years are short.” What do you like best about Mt. Vernon: It's such a beautiful town. It's a very nice community. It feels like a small town, but it's bigger than the town she grew up in. . .it just feels like one big family. They do an amazing job of maintaining the history and keeping it beautiful for the people who live there and come to visit. . .it's got a lot of character.
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OPINIONS/NEWS
OPINIONS
Thanks for EMS directors established nothing
MVLSUNCOM
SUN EDITORIAL
Living in Iowa Dan Brawner It’s not like I’m ungrateful. But I keep getting these emails saying, “Congratulations! You have won 200 FREE SPINS!” And I’m wondering, “What’s a spin?” Is it actually worth anything? Have I been buying spins all along and didn’t know it? I have to admit, it does kind of feel good to be congratulated for something. Anyway, it turns out, the emails are referring to a gambling scheme in which the player spins a dial like a digital roulette wheel for a chance to win some money. Or more likely, to lose money. But I’m not sure I even want a spin. Still, a spin is a spin. Who am I to look a giftspin in the mouth? And how long does a spin take? I might not have time for 200 spins. I’ve got stuff to do. And then there are the contests I never entered. “Congratulations!” they say, “You have won a brand-new cordless drill from DeWalt absolutely free!” I look at the fine print and it’s really from a lawncare company in Rajkovic, Iceland and they want $260 for shipping. Yeah, thanks. We live in an age of broken promises. If you play the lottery, your odds of winning are calculated to be around 292 million to one—or roughly the same as if you didn’t play at all. How did we get to be such suckers? Donald Trump promised gas would soon be $2 a gallon. That didn’t happen so he announced that gas is $2 a gallon. Like we wouldn’t know. Who does he think he’s talking to? A reporter asked how he would address the high cost of living and he told her she and everybody else is already rich, thanks to him. In 2009, Obama promised Americans that the Affordable Care Act would allow everybody to keep their current health care. After the law went into effect, millions of Americans were dropped from their health care because it failed to meet the new ACA standards. In 1988 George H.W. Bush famously promised, “Read my lips: no new taxes.” And then he raised taxes. In the early 2000’s the energy company, Enron promised shareholders everlasting prosperity, right before they went bankrupt, wiping out thousands of jobs and retirement savings. Remember the Tariff Dividends and the DOGE Dividends? What did you do with your $2,000 check? And now there’s the $5,000 “Trump Dividend” bribe for voting for Republicans—but only if they win both houses of Congress in the midterms. This is a classic Charlie Brown football routine in which Lucy repeatedly tricks Charlie Brown, promising to hold the football for him to kick, only to pull it away at the last second so he falls flat every time. Is Charlie Brown a sucker or an eternal optimist? It turns out only 21 percent of American voters believe Trump will ever send them the $5,000. But what about that hopeful, eternally-trusting 21 percent? Who are those optimistic Charlie Browns, willing to wait and see? Maybe the odds are against them. But it’s worth a spin.
We get that the Lisbon-Mount Vernon EMS election was not a normal election. It was originally proposed for a March special election, after all, but one group seeking guidance from the state pushed that to September. And when it was finally held, there wasn’t a lot of information presented on slates of candidates outside of social media posts as to who was interested in the positions on the board of directors. We agree with council members Sherene Hansen-Player, Scott Rose and Mark Andresen that choosing to look at the top five vote getters to determine who should represent the city is the correct choice of action. As voters, we were asked to help the council narrow down the names that
were presented in differing fashion to five candidates. The electors did that. When you take into account the lack of undervotes in that special election, of people who just voted yes and skipped the board of directors portion of the vote, either by not knowing the three they’d nominate or even a single candidate, that is reflective of the community giving you a plurality of who they think would represent them well. And there’s no wrong way for any group to have selected their representatives to the commission, be that going with the top votes only or asking as Mount Vernon did for more information to help the council better know these five candidates and discuss the option. Neither does stepping away from the five
names nominated go against the will of the voters when the option was a pick three. There’s no way of knowing in the end if all three of those candidates with the most votes all had them from every voter. At the end of the day as council members Paul Tuerler, Andresen, Craig Engel, Rose and Hansen-Player noted – the city had five terrific candidates to choose from and to find the fit that will work well in establishing what will be an influential board tasked with building a new commission that will serve the community for years to come. Taking time on this decision, albeit more discussion between council members to come up with a slate that best represents the skills the council wants on the commission was a fine step to make sure the appointments were done. And we commend all five who were willing to serve on that commission now or possibly in the future.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR Addressing myths and facts
by eating up the surplus, one-time funds, question? many of which came during the Biden era FACT In her article in the Oct. 1 Sun, our pres- response to the pandemic. Current revenues show a better-than-exent state legislator, Cindy Golding, claimed According to the Iowa Legislative pected financial picture for this year. she would set the record strait on a number Services Agency, our state legislature’s nonWhen the last budget year ended on June of issues. She did not. She never got around partisan bill writing and budging agency 30, the state had $5.5 billion in the bank. to answering all the so-called myths. this is the situation. The Numbers are in Lengthy attack on Chet Culver… Here is her first example. Billions. She finishes by praising the tax cuts they Myth have made. Which, by the way, caused the Iowa government is running a budget FY 2026 (last year) FY 2027 (this year) deficit. deficit. Appropriations $9495.8$9639.0 Where was her answer to the question she Fact Receipts (taxes) $8102.5 $8404.5 posed? Nowhere. Remember, she asked the The correct answer. Deficit $1393.3 $1234.5 questions and claimed to answer them, but There is a budget deficit in Iowa, and it mainly she didn’t. I can’t trust her answers. will continue until Iowa government raises Yes, the FACT is that we are running a taxes or make deep cuts in education and deficit. David Osterberg other services. We are holding it together How does our Representative answer this Mount Vernon
Hinson, Turek discuss Iran war, tariffs Ashley Hinson and Josh Turek highlighted sharp differences on the Iran war, Iowa agriculture, and healthcare during their first debate Genevieve DiChiara The Daily Iowan
costly American military engagement, arguing rising diesel and fertilizer prices are placing additional financial pressure on Iowa farmers. “We have to end this war in Iran and get back to diplomacy,” Turek said. He proposed temporarily suspending the federal gas tax, restricting diesel exports, and releasing oil from strategic reserves to provide immediate relief. Hinson said she supports bringing the conflict to an immediate and successful conclusion but maintained the idea that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons must remain a priority. “We do need to bring it to an immediate and successful end and to me, that means not allowing them to have a nuclear weapon and making sure that we’re working with and protecting our allies in the region,” Hinson said. When questioned about voting against a congressional resolution calling for an end to the war, Hinson argued the president should have the flexibility to oversee an orderly conclusion.
U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, and Iowa Rep. Josh Turek, D-Council Bluffs, traded sharp criticisms over the war in Iran, Iowa’s struggling agricultural economy, and federal healthcare cuts during their first debate on Oct. 7. Ahead of the midterm election, the candidates, vying for Iowa’s open U.S. Senate seat, repeatedly challenged each other’s voting records while outlining different approaches to lowering costs for Iowa families and farmers. Turek portrayed Hinson as closely aligned with President Donald Trump’s policies, arguing tariffs and the ongoing conflict in Iran have disproportionately Tariffs and Iowa agriculture harmed Iowa’s economy. Hinson defended her congressional Trade policy emerged as another major record, emphasizing tax relief, domes- disagreement, with Turek accusing the tic manufacturing, and efforts to protect Trump administration’s tariffs of damaging American interests abroad. Iowa’s agricultural markets. Turek said farmers depend on international trade and argued tariffs targeting Iran war and rising costs major trading partners, including Canada, The candidates offered contrasting Mexico, and China, have made it increaspositions on the war in Iran, particularly ingly difficult for producers to remain its impact on fuel prices and agricultural profitable. production. Hinson defended efforts to hold foreign Turek criticized the conflict as another trading partners accountable, particularly
China, while advocating for expanding American manufacturing and reducing fertilizer costs. Both candidates expressed support for a proposed steel mill in southeast Iowa expected to create approximately 1,700 permanent jobs. Turek pointed to his vote supporting state incentives for the project, while Hinson credited federal tax policies with encouraging domestic investment.
Healthcare and Medicaid The candidates also clashed over federal Medicaid reductions and the future of rural healthcare. Turek criticized Hinson’s support for Trump’s sweeping tax and spending legislation, arguing reductions to Medicaid and food assistance would disproportionately affect vulnerable Iowans. Hinson defended the legislation, highlighting its $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Fund and provisions intended to strengthen eligibility requirements. She said the funding is already helping rural communities recruit additional medical providers. Turek argued the funding would not compensate for broader Medicaid reductions, particularly in communities already struggling to maintain hospitals and pharmacies. Both candidates acknowledged concerns about insurance companies denying medically necessary treatment.
Voting records and congressional ethics The debate grew increasingly contentious
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when Hinson accused Turek of missing 58 percent of Iowa House votes this year. Turek defended his legislative record, citing bipartisan accomplishments and accusing Hinson of supporting policies solely benefiting wealthy Americans. The candidates also exchanged
OPINIONS/NEWS
accusations over financial transparency. Turek questioned Hinson’s increasing personal wealth during her congressional tenure and called for congressional term limits, campaign finance reforms, and restrictions on stock ownership. Hinson rejected his allegations,
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | 5
saying she and her husband sold their individual stocks in 2021 to avoid potential conflicts of interest. The debate underscored the candidates’ competing approaches to federal spending, economic policy, and government accountability as Iowa voters prepare to select their U.S. Senator in November.
POLITIFACT IOWA
Zach Nunn said Republicans passed the largest tax cut in U.S. history. This is Mostly False. Isabella Tisdale The Daily Iowan
U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, praised Republicans’ tax cuts as the largest in history as he campaigns for reelection to Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District. In a Sept. 8 social media video, Nunn said, “We have cut the largest taxes in U.S. history,” when addressing volunteers door-knocking. Nunn is referring to President Donald Trump’s signature legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which became law in summer 2025. The bill extended tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that were set to expire and added several new tax cuts. Other Republicans, including Vice President JD Vance, have also called the legislation the largest tax cut in history, and PolitiFact rated that Mostly False. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act lowered the average income tax rates for all income groups, with the largest cuts concentrated among the top 5% of earners. The act was set to expire on Dec. 31, 2025. With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, those tax cuts were extended. The legislation also enacted tax breaks for people who work overtime or receive tips. The marginal rates were also adjusted for tax year 2026. Measured against the size of the economy, the tax savings in the 2025 law were smaller than earlier laws. Where the law ranks depends on whether you count extending the tax cuts that were set to expire, or only the law’s new tax cuts. When PolitiFact Iowa asked
Nunn’s campaign for more information to support his statement, a spokesperson pointed to an article by Heritage Action, an arm of the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. It says Americans would face the largest tax increase in “generations” if the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act were to expire. Independent economists disagree that it’s the largest tax cut. “The 1981 Reagan tax cut was substantially larger relative to the economy,” said Anne Villamil, University of Iowa professor of economics. The 1981 Economic Recovery Tax Act cut marginal taxes by more than 25% over three years. The act was aimed at encouraging economic growth by reducing corporate income tax for businesses making less than $50,000 annually and introducing more benefits for married couples. How do economists measure tax cuts? When calculating tax cuts, economists consider multiple factors. OBBBA is projected to gross $4.5 trillion over 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Tax bills’ total value increases over time because of inflation. So the ideal way to understand tax cuts is as a percentage of gross domestic product, or GDP. This put the cuts into the context of inflation and the overall economy. Counting just the new tax cuts in the OBBA, they make up 0.5% of GDP . When looking only at the new tax cuts added by the bill, it ranks tied for sixth-largest cut overall since 1980, PolitiFact previously reported. When factoring tax cuts extended
from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the OBBBA ranks third largest since 1980. Economists have previously told PolitiFact it’s legitimate to measure the size of the tax cuts either way. The law resulted in taxes being lower than they’d be if the 2017 tax cuts expired, but many taxpayers could see little change in taxes because rates stayed the same as in recent years. Carrie Houchins-Witt, an enrolled agent professional at Carrie Houchins-Witt Tax and Financial Services, said “a large swath of taxpayers are not seeing any tax cut,” and some people saw their taxes increase. The senior deduction — $6,000 for people 65 or older making less than $75,000 a year — did benefit many of her clients, she said.
BUSINESS SERVICES
Our ruling Nunn said, “We have cut the largest taxes in U.S. history.” While the tax cuts are projected to be nominally large, the more effective way of understanding them is in the larger context of the economy. When looking exclusively at new tax cuts, the OBBBA is tied for sixth-largest since 1980. But, when viewing the OBBBA as an extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the bill sits at third largest. This statement contains an element of truth but ignores critical facts that would give a different impression. We rate the statement Mostly False.
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NEWS
6 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026
MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN | MVLSUN.COM
First-time candidate enters Iowa’s education debate Mike Bergman is running for Iowa House with education policy at the center of his campaign Ariel Kolder
The Daily Iowan
Mike Bergman doesn’t view politics as an enjoyable undertaking. The longtime Mount Vernon resident saw Republican incumbent Cindy Golding was running for reelection unopposed and said he couldn’t sit back and do nothing. “There [has] been a lot of crazy laws in my opinion coming out of Des Moines the last few years, and frankly, a lot of them just made me embarrassed to be an Iowan,” he said. Bergman said he took a closer look at Golding’s voting record and found several laws he disagreed with, but one issue stood out to him: her vote in favor of Iowa’s education savings account law. “The one issue that really triggered me was her vote in favor of this education savings account, or ESA, law. That name is just such a misnomer, the only people that’s saving any money for the, Advantaged socioeconomic class of Iowa residents anyway,” he said. Bergman had to give running for office a good amount of thought. In the past, he would have loved to participate in politics, describing the politics of his youth as a time of civil discussion and compromise. Bergman said now politics have gotten “ugly.” “Particularly now, when the radical Republicans have had the trifecta in Des Moines, the thought of being involved in that just sounded terrible,” he said. Signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds on Jan. 24, 2023, the Student First Act makes state funding available for Iowa K-12 students. The measure created education savings accounts, or ESAs, which allow families to use public dollars for tuition, fees, and other approved expenses at accredited private schools. For Bergman, the program is more than a policy disagreement. Education is a focus of his campaign, and he has made the funding of Iowa’s public schools a
central issue in his challenge to Golding. “It’s basically a big taxpayer giveaway to private schools,” Bergman said. “And the primary recipients of those vouchers are already better off than the average Iowan. It’s hurting our public schools.” While knocking on doors, he said he’s gotten a lot of support for his campaign. “It’s overwhelming how many of them do not like the idea that their tax dollars are now going to private schools. While their own schools are getting shortchanged,” Bergman said. According to the Iowa Legislative Services Agency state budget preview for fiscal year 2027, ESAs cost an estimated $347 million combined in fiscal years 2024 and 2025. Bergman said he is concerned that while money given to private schools continues to climb, public schools will be left behind with state contributions not covering inflation. “For the last 10 years at least, the budget increases for the state contribution to public schools has not matched the rate of inflation. They’re getting further behind the power curve now in their funding needs,” he said. Education has been at the center of discussion ahead of Iowa’s midterm election, with gubernatorial candidates offering differing views on the state’s education savings account program. As previously reported by The Daily Iowan, Democratic gubernatorial candidate, and Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand has criticized ESAs arguing that private schools should have to adhere to rules governing how those funds can be spent and should face audits. He also said private schools should not be able to decide who they can admit. “Private schools that take public money should not be able to reject students,” Sand said. Republican gubernatorial candidate Zach Lahn has also spoken about ESAs, describing the accounts as a “foundational freedom” for Iowa families in an interview with PBS. He said these different models of schooling help serve kids with different needs. “I would love to see a day when there’s hundreds of these types of schools, not
John Charlson | The Daily Iowan
Mike Bergman poses for a portrait next to his campaign sign along 1st Street West in Mount Vernon on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. Bergman is the Democratic nominee running against Republican incumbent Cindy Golding for the Iowa House District 83 seat.
just like my school, but other types of schools across the state of Iowa, along with our public schools, operating in innovative ways to bring more choice to Iowa’s families,” Lahn said. Scott Ellison, professor of Social Foundations of Education at the University of Northern Iowa, said there are two problems the ESA program tries to solve, value-based education and school competition. “We want schooling that is patriotic, that reflects conservative values, and often religious values,” he said. Ellison said the idea of school competition is an economic idea, that if you have private schools competing with public schools, for the per person funding. “What you’ve in essence created is a marketplace of schools that will respond like any other market. That will improve overall achievement, because the public school monopoly now has competition,” he said. In other states like Indiana and Louisiana where vouchers have been put in
Book Excerpt Reading Iowa Brass to hold fall by the Kitchen Table concert titled “Majesty Writers’ Chapter Club of the Earth” The Kitchen Table Writers’ Chapter Club will hold a free reading of books in progress in Heritage Hall at the Lisbon Public Library at 101 E Main Street in Lisbon Sunday, Nov. 8 from 1-3 p.m. (Since the Library will be closed during the event, please use the side entrance on Washington Street.) This event features aspiring authors from across Iowa writing in a variety of genres with the goal of creating a finished book. This event is free and open to the public. The Kitchen Table Writers’ Chapter Club is a Mount Vernon-based group of aspiring authors from across the state of Iowa, who meet monthly to share chapter updates with the group in a supportive and creative environment.
Painting • Drywall • Siding Tile Floors • Tuckpointing • Decks • Replacement Windows Prefinished Hardwood Floors • Flat Roofs • Roofs Bath & Kitchen Remodel • Repairs • Insured
Iowa Brass will be holding a free fall concert titled “Majesty of the Earth” at the Solon Community Center at 313 S Iowa Street in Solon Sunday, Oct. 25 at 4 p.m. This free performance will move you from the waters beneath to the skies above to the wonders of the earth under our feet and even the elemental transformation brought by fire. This soaring program will leave you in awe at the world around us. Iowa Brass, Iowa’s only British-style brass band, blends tradition with a fresh, modern twist. Since 1986, this dynamic group has captivated audiences across Iowa and beyond with their exceptional artistry and thrilling performances. For more information, visit iowabrass.com.
place, Ellison said that there hasn’t been a promising uptick in student academic performance. Ellison speculated about the future of public schools if Iowa were to continue the voucher program, and said the state would see a drain of students out of the public sector, more consolidations, and students riding on buses longer. “I think you’re going to see greater pressure on smaller school districts in rural areas. Of course, you’re going to see a proliferation of private schools,” he said. Nearing the election, Bergman said he finds the support he has received overwhelming hoping to see the support translate to votes. “It really helps me conclude decisively that I’m doing the right thing,” he said. “There’s just so many people that have expressed their gratitude that I’m running. I’ve seen a lot of crazy things happen in elections here lately, but just by my own unofficial polling I’ve got a winning issue here.”
MVLSUN.COM | MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN
OBITUARIES CLARA POSPISIL Clara Mae Pospisil (Meroshek) Age 102, died Oct. 9, 2026, at her residence, Keystone Cedars in Cedar Rapids. Clara was born in rural Marion, to parents Mary Vanous Meroshek and Frank Meroshek, and grew up with brothers, Charles, William, and Frank Meroshek, and one sister, Rose Meroshek Pospisil. As a teenager and through the Great Depression, Clara and family moved to a small farm just north of Mount Vernon. She graduated from Mount Vernon High School in 1942 and later married her classmate Robert Pospisil in 1947. Clara resided in rural Mount Vernon all her adult life as a homemaker, 4-H leader, member, and volunteer of St. John’s Catholic Church, avid card player, enjoyed needlework, and loved her crossword puzzles. Robert and Clara enjoyed numerous trips to Mesa, Ariz., and the Florida Keys along with fishing trips with family and friends. A special thank you to Keystones Cedars for their exceptional care over the last six years. Preceded in death by her husband, Robert Pospisil; daughter, Rita McGinnis; and daughter-in-law, Debra Pospisil. She is survived by her children, Diane (Brad) Henry, Doug Pospisil, widower, John McGinnis, Ed Pospisil, and partner Linda Moothart; grandchildren, Carrie, Kate, John, Laura, Nick, Allison, and Hilary; and eight great-grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, at St. John’s Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow at the Lisbon Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. John’s Catholic Church.
Especially for You Race draws 16,310 participants to downtown Cedar Rapids The 36th annual Especially for You Race Against Breast Cancer drew 16,310 registered participants to Mercy’s Hall-Perrine Cancer Center under sunny skies this morning. Proceeds from race registrations benefit the Especially for You fund. This year more than $520,000 in registrations was raised for the fund, which provides financial assistance for breast and gynecological cancer screenings and services for area individuals in need. Since its inception, the Especially for You fund has helped more than 16,000 individuals with 48,000 services right here in Linn County. General Mills and Mercy Medical Center are co-founders of the race, which includes a 5K run, 5K walk and a one-mile family fun walk. The course route took participants through downtown Cedar Rapids and finished at Mercy’s Hall-Perrine Cancer Center where participants enjoyed live music, kids’ activities, food truck offerings, and a health fair. The Especially for You Race has experienced tremendous growth since the first race in 1991, when 1,078 people participated. The race and Especially for You fund are dedicated to the memory of Sandy Knight, a Whittier resident and General Mills employee who died of breast cancer at an early age in July 1991. It was her wish to establish a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness and education. 2026 Race Details -Total registrants: 16,310 (There were 16,682 in 2025.) -Money raised for Especially for You: More than $520,000 in race registrations -Total number of registered teams: 600 Top business teams with most members: 1. Mercy Medical Center – 1,093 2. OB-GYN Associates – 252 3. Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa – 250 Top family teams with most members: 1. Amber’s Army – 171 2. Team JGO – 83 3. Swantz Strong – 70 Fun Facts • Race participants represented 529 cities and 37 states, as well as Guam. • Total number of cancer survivors registered for the race – 1,102, which represents 908 breast cancer and 180 other cancers. • This year’s T-shirt color was wild plum. The color changes every year. Race results are posted at www.especiallyforyourace.org.
RECORDS
Tuesday Morning Book Club discussing ‘The Frozen River The Tuesday Morning Book Club at Cole Library will be meeting Oct. 20 from 9:30 - 11 a.m. The group meets in Room 108, which is the large meeting room on the First Floor of the Library. All are welcome to attend the Book Club. If you have any questions about the group, you can email Sherene Hansen Player at Sherene1968@gmail. com At the October Meeting, the group will be reading and discussing the book The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. Deb Hanson will review the book and lead the discussion. From the publisher comes this summary of the book: "Maine, 1789: When the Kennebec River freezes, entombing a man in the ice, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine cause of death. "As a midwife and healer, she is privy to much of what goes on behind closed doors in Hallowell. Her diary is a record of every birth and death, crime and debacle that unfolds in the close-knit community. "Months earlier, Martha documented the details of an alleged rape committed by two of the town’s most respected gentlemen—one of whom has now been found dead in the ice. But when a local physician undermines her conclusion, declaring the death to be an accident, Martha is forced to investigate the shocking murder on her own. "Over the course of one winter, as the trial nears, and whispers and prejudices mount, Martha doggedly pursues the truth. Her diary soon lands at the center of the scandal, implicating those she loves, and compelling Martha to decide where her own loyalties lie. "Clever, layered, and subversive, Ariel Lawhon’s newest offering introduces an unsung heroine who refused to accept anything less than justice at a time when women were considered best seen and not heard. The Frozen River is a thrilling, tense, and tender story about a remarkable woman who left an unparalleled legacy, yet remains nearly forgotten to this day."
Prescription drug take-back days planned county, locally On Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Linn County Sheriff’s Office (310 Second Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids) and the Drug Enforcement Administration will host DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at locations across the country. DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Locally, Wellness Coalition of Rural Linn County and Mount Vernon-Lisbon Police Department will hold a prescription drug take back day as part of the Trunk or Treat event held at Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center’s parking lot from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. For sixteen years, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has helped Americans safely dispose of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired—to prevent drug misuse and abuse. Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,200 dropoff locations nationwide. In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 20.4 million pounds (10,200 tons) of medication from circulation since its inception. Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage. For more information and to find a collection site near you, visit www.DEATakeBack.com
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | 7
Cole Corner Cathy Boggs Cole Library
The Pirate Queen available at Cole Library The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is one of my favorite books of all time. It is a historical fiction novel based on the life of Martha Ballard, a midwife and healer in Hallowell, Maine, during the late 1700s. Martha Ballard learned to read and write as an adult and kept a diary the rest of her life. These diaries were passed down through the women in her family and were used to write a nonfiction book about her— A Midwife’s Tale: The Life of Martha Ballard, based on her diary 1785-1812. It won the 1991 Pulitzer Prize for History. This book and other historical documents aided Lawhon in writing a gripping book about life in a Maine village and the murder that happened there. Now Lawhon has turned her attention to Grace O’Malley – another strong female character from history known as the Pirate Queen, a legendary Irish folk heroine from the sixteenth century. The novel, titled The Pirate Queen, follows O’Malley through the three stages of her life: maiden, mother, and matriarch. These are the stages that overlap to form the Trinity Knot Celtic symbol. Why do I love these books? Lawhon is writing about a strong character whom I feel I should have already been introduced to but am so happy to know about now. By writing fiction, this author makes these characters come to life and become more accessible to the reader with dialog and anecdotes. Because these characters are based on real women, they lead you to do more research if you want to know more about their actual lives or the times they lived in. If you also loved The Frozen River, dive into Lawhon’s newest novel The Pirate Queen.
Thursday, October 15: 8am-10pm Friday, October 16: 8am- 5pm Saturday, October 17: 10am-4pm Sunday, October 18: 12pm-10pm Monday, October 19: 8am-10pm Tuesday, October 20: 8am-10pm Wednesday, October 21: 8am-4:30pm Thursday, October 22: 8am-4:30pm
POLICE CALLS Oct. 5 – Agency assist- accident, Linn Co Oct. 5 – Medical, 400 blk Sixth St NW, Mount Vernon Oct. 5 – Alarm, 100 blk W. Main St, Lisbon Oct. 6 – Citizen assist, 500 blk business 30, Mount Vernon Oct. 6 – Alarm, 700 blk Ave NW, Mount Vernon Oct. 6 – Suspicious person, 300 blk Roosevelt St, Lisbon Oct. 6 – Car unlock, 200 blk School St, Lisbon Oct. 7 – Medical, 200 blk business 30, Mount Vernon Oct. 7 – Welfare check, 400 blk Third Ave NW, Mount Vernon Oct. 7 – Trespassing, 500 blk S. Jackson St, Lisbon Oct. 7 – Medical, 600 blk First St SW, Mount Vernon Oct. 8 – Medical, 100 blk Lincoln Ave, Lisbon Oct. 8 – Juvenile issue, E. Market St, Lisbon Oct. 8 – Accident, 700 blk S. First Ave, Mount Vernon Oct. 8 – Medical, 200 blk School St, Lisbon Oct. 9 – Alarm, 200 blk business 30, Mount Vernon Oct. 9 – Medical, 400 blk B Ave SE, Mount Vernon Oct. 10 – Suspicious person, 100 blk S. Franklin St, Lisbon Oct. 11 – Juvenile issue, 100 blk Fifth Ave NW, Mount Vernon Oct. 11 – Disturbance, 500 blk business 30, Mount Vernon Oct. 11 – Car unlock, 100 blk S. Hwy 1, Mount Vernon Oct. 11 – Medical, 500 blk Ashton Dr, Mount Vernon
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SPORTS
8 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN
MVLSUNCOM
LISBON FOOTBALL
Lisbon slashes Camanche 61-20
Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
Early on during Senior Night against winless Camanche, the Lisbon Lions found themselves in a spot they didn't want to be in. In a shootout with the Storm. "The first half was dicey," senior Ethan Stone said. "But we took over." And how. Lisbon piled up 534 yards and 61 points, winning 61-20 Friday, Oct. 9 at Walmer Field. "I was really hoping for a good game like this, since it was Senior Night," senior Kooper Harms said. "And it happened." Senior Ryder Meeks ran for 291 yards on 19 carries and had four rushing touchdowns, churning through the defense, as Hayden Fry once said, like a rolling ball of butcher knives. He also had a 51-yard punt return for a score. "He runs hard," Lisbon coach Alex Dean said. "He ran like a man possessed tonight behind an offensive line that was ready to block." Senior receiver Ethan Stone finished with eight catches for 118 yards, including an 11-yard TD catch. "I think I am (a big part of the offense)," Stone said. "I feel like Tyler is figuring it out." That Tyler is Tyler Kubovec, the sophomore quarterback. He finished with 134 yards on 9-of-12 passing plus 74 rushing yards and two TD runs. He also went to the sideline after taking a hard hit near the goal line in the third quarter. "Tyler is a tough kid and takes a lot of hits," Dean said. "To his credit, he usually bounces right back." Lisbon (3-4, 1-3 1AD5) never trailed, but gave up a 70-yard drive to the Storm on their first possession, and led just 21-14 midway through the second quarter. Camanche (0-7, 0-4) used its passing attack to keep the Lions on their toes. Junior QB Bentley Goldensoph threw it 38 times and finished with 258 passing yards. His favorite target was freshman Jaxson Lawrence, who had a school-record 16 catches for 196 yards. "You just have to play back on him," Stone said. "You don't want to let him get deep. He got behind me once, and after that, he was pretty quiet." Lawrence had 11 of his 16 catches in the first half. The Lisbon defensive line started getting more pressure on Goldensoph in the second half. Senior Cameron Prasil had 4.5 sacks, junior Walker Smith had 1.5, and Harms added one. "We were constantly putting pressure on the QB," Harms said. That helped slow down the downfield strikes. "One hand washes the other," Dean said. "If our defensive line is getting pressure, that makes our coverage look really good. All of it has to work together." The secondary also came up with two interceptions, one from senior Kaden Martin and one by senior Leon Rogers. And in addition to the punt return TD, the special teams delivered with an onside kick recovery by Harms and a safety when a high punt snap went into the end zone. Plus a 23-yard field goal by Caleb Norton. Lisbon played Northeast (7-0, 4-0) close the week prior, but lost on the road 26-21. This Friday, Oct. 16, the Lions travel to the other District 5 powerhouse, Dyersville Beckman (6-1, 3-1).
Team stats CAM LIS First downs 16 25 Rushes-yds. 17-(-54) 35-410 Cmp.-Att.-Int. 25-39-2 9-13-1 Pass yds. 270 124 Total yds. 216 534 Fum.-lost 0-0 2-0 Punts-ave. 2-26.5 1-35.0 Pen.-yds. 2-13 12-113 Camanche 6 8 6 0 -- 20 Lisbon 14 16 21 10 -- 61 LIS - Ryder Meeks 37-yard run (Caleb Norton kick). CAM - Harper Hoge 2-yard pass from Bentley Goldensoph (pass failed). LIS - Tyler Kubovec 3-yard run (Norton kick). LIS - Meeks 2-yard run (Norton kick). CAM - Jaxson Lawrence 57-yard pass from Goldensoph (Carsen Goldensoph pass from Bentley Goldensoph) LIS - Ethan Stone 11-yard pass from Kubovec (Norton kick). LIS - Safety. LIS - Meeks 51-yard punt return (Norton kick). CAM - Lawrence 15-yard pass from B. Goldensoph (pass fail). LIS - Meeks 1-yard run (Norton kick). LIS - Meeks 40-yard run (Norton kick). LIS - Kubovec 18-yard run (Norton kick). LIS - Norton 23 FG. INDIVIDUAL STATS Rushing - Camanche: Harper Hoge 4-(10), Bentley Goldensoph 13-(-44). Lisbon: Ryder Meeks 19-291, Tyler Kubovec 7-74, Aiidyn Armstrong 8-33, Ethan Stone 1-12. Passing - Camanche: Bentley Goldensoph 24-38-258-2, Lawson Sullivan 1-1-12-0. Lisbon: Tyler Kubovec 9-12-124-1, Ryder Meeks 0-1-0-0. Receiving - Camanche: Jaxson Lawrence 16-196, Anthony Sikora 4-36, Harpr Hoge 4-30, Carsen Goldensoph 1-8. Lisbon: Ethan Stone 8-118, Klayton Kahl 1-6. Photos by Emma Reiter | For the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
"Lisbon isn't out, yet," Harms said. "We're more than capable." Unfortunately, even if the Lions would pull off the upset, they won't make the playoffs because they'd lose head-to-head tiebreakers with both Cascade and MFL MarMac, who both beat Lisbon head-to-
head. "We're not into moral victories," Dean said. "They have proven they can be tough and resilient. They can give themselves a chance if they hang in there. "When we're playing how we can play, we can be a pretty good football team."
Top: Lisbon quarterback Tyler Kubovec hands off the ball during a football game against Camanche at Lisbon High School on Friday, Oct. 9. Center: Lisbon wide receiver Ryder Meeks catches the snap for kicker Caleb Norton. Bottom: Lisbon offensive lineman Cameron Prasil fights through the defense.
MVLSUN.COM | MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN
SPORTS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | 9
MV VOLLEYBALL
Mustangs smash Wolves in five set match
Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
Embrace the grind. And the WaMaC West has been a grind this fall for the Mount Vernon volleyball team. On Tuesday, Oct. 6, the eighth-ranked (3A) Mustangs got into another 5-set tussle with a conference foe, this time beating No. 8 (4A) Marion 25-23, 29-27, 11-25, 21-25, 15-9. "I think we just went into this feeling totally energized," senior Madison Hoffert said. "One, because it was Senior Night, two, because it was our last home game. And it was just fun to finish it up." It was the third 5-set match. Mount Vernon (22-8, 3-2) lost one to Solon, and won one over Independence. "I told the girls this is a gift to do this in October," Mount Vernon coach Maggie Willems said. "We'll need this experience on the way to a state tournament bid." The first two sets were back-and-forth battles. Set 1 was tied seven times, the last at 23-23. Junior Madelyn Paulus came up with kills for the final two points. In the second set, Marion had set point, 24-23, when Paulus came up with a pair of clutch kills. Marion had set point again up 26-25 and 27-26, but each time the Mustangs fought it off. Tied 27-27, Mount Vernon finally closed it out with a Marion attack error and a Brynlee Bettcher kill, hard off a Marion block. "I was really proud of how we came out strong and executed in those first two sets," Bettcher said. "But Marion is a great team, so I did know they were going to come back strong." Marion (17-12, 2-3) dominated the third set, getting up 15-5 and winning 25-11. "We just said to flush it," Hoffert said. "Flush our mistakes. Flush all memories of that set. That's the good thing about volleyball, you get a new start every single set. I think we really took that to our advantage." In Set 4, it was back to back-and-forth. Tied 21-21, the Wolves closed it on a 4-0 run with a pair of ace serves by Jaleaya Oliver. Both aces were hit right at senior libero Mavrik Schweer. Normally a top defensive presence, Willems took the time to give her a hug in the hallway before coming out for the fifth set. "I think kids just need to be told and reminded that you love them and you believe in them," Willems said. "Those are two mistakes that we've already forgotten. "I reminded the team we have all the tools we need, and that we trust them. Trust each other and go out and play Mount Vernon volleyball." Mount Vernon went on an early 8-1 run in the fifth set that two Marion time outs couldn't slow down. Senior Sophia Meester and Bettcher each had three kills during the run, and Hoffert had a stuff block. Up 10-3, they went on to win 15-9. "It was just coming out and playing for each other," Bettcher said. "Especially on Senior Night. We had nine seniors. And we are all capable of helping one another." The Mustangs got strong attacks up and down the net. Meester finished with 18 kills, followed by Paulus with 14, Bettcher with 12, and freshman Stella Merino with nine. Hoffert, the setter, added five kills and 53 assists, and junior Ella Wilson had four kills. Schweer led the team with 39 digs. "Everybody contributed," Willems said. "That's the name of the game for us. Balance." The match started at 7:55 p.m. and didn't end until after 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, was another grind at the Westside Invitational, hosted by Cedar Rapids Jefferson. The Mustangs went 2-1 in pool play, beating West Liberty
21-17, 18-21, 16-14, and Jefferson 21-19, 21-13 but falling to No. 9 (5A) Iowa City Liberty 21-17, 21-17. In the Gold Bracket, Mount Vernon lost in the quarterfinals to No. 4 (5A) West Des Moines Dowling, 19-25, 25-21, 15-7. The Maroons finished runner-up to No 6 (5A) Ankney Centennial. Mount Vernon also found out its regional draw last week. The Mustangs start by hosting Maquoketa (3-19) on Oct. 20. The other ranked team in the region is No. 9 Wilton (27-4). The regional final would be Oct. 27 at a site to be determined.
Photos by Lucy Wischmeyer | Mustang Moon
Top left: Mount Vernon’s Stella Merino (No. 7) spikes the ball over the net in home play Tuesday, Oct. 6. Top right: The Mount Vernon volleyball players have a brief encouragement meeting on the court in play against Marion Tuesday, Oct. 6. The Mustangs won in a five match set against the Wolves. Above left: Mount Vernon’s Kinley Nissen (No. 11) spikes the ball over the net in play against Marion Tuesday, Oct. 6. Above right: Mount Vernon’s Kinley Nissen (No. 11) serves the ball at home play Tuesday, Oct. 6, against Marion.
TENNIS
MV’s Stella Dvorak seventh at state in tennis Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
Mount Vernon sophomore Stella Dvorak placed seventh at the Class 1A State Tournament, held across two days, Wednesday, Oct. 7 and Thursday, Oct. 8, in Waukee. It was her first trip to the state singles tournament and she opened with a 7-5, 6-1 win over Kaelyn Denathy of
Central DeWitt. In the quarterfinals, she lost to No. 4 seed Charlotte Schwabe of Carroll Kuemper, 6-2, 6-1. "It was an interesting start," Mount Vernon coach Brenden VanWey said. "She had a lot of nerves. She got those out of the way." Into the consolation side of the bracket, Dvorak bounced back with a 6-1, 3-6, 1-0 win over Stella Britton of Sergeant Bluff-Luton. Then in the consolation semifinals, familiar foe Natalie
Steele of Fairfield got the best of Dvorak, 6-2, 6-1. The sophomore closed it out with a 6-2, 6-3 win in the seventh-place match, beating Sofia Alinea of Charles City. "On Day 2, she played how she wanted to," VanWey said. "She's a sophomore and found out some stuff to take into next year. I think she'll be back band better than ever." VanWey said Dvorak was the first Mount Vernon player to qualify for state singles.
SPORTS
10 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026
MVL CROSS COUNTRY
MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN | MVLSUN.COM
MV FOOTBALL
MVLXC boys’, MV tromps CD 17-10 girls’ first at WD meet Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
The season has sped by, and Mount Vernon-Lisbon cross country finds itself in the championship portion of the season. Next up is conference, then the state-qualifier, then state. The Mustangs proved they are ready on Tuesday, Oct. 6, winning both races at the West Delaware Invitational. "Any time you get the sweep, it was a good day," MVL Coach Kory Swart said. The MVL boys finished with 59 points, topping Anamosa (88) and Marion (118) for the team title. And did it despite missing one of their top runners, Chasen Caskey. "We're hoping to have him back for conference," Swart said. "To get the win without him was encouraging. We'll be even stronger with him." Anthony Happel led the pack, finishing second in 16 minutes, 29.1 seconds, about 3 seconds behind medalist Collin Cook of Marion. Anthony Armstrong (7), Connor Teague (8) and Casey Swart (12) all finished within 61 seconds of Happel. Freshman Dashtyn Caskey rounded out the scoring, finishing 30th in 18:16.8. "Everyone has had to step it up a notch, and they did that," Coach Swart said. On the girls’ side, senior Evelyn Moeller continued her season of domination, winning the race in 17 minutes, 26.6 seconds, the second-best time of her career. She was over a minute ahead of second-place Aaliyah Causey of Center Point-Urbana (18:37.9). "I kind of told her she didn't have to go crazy for this meet," Swart said. "But she was able to cruise to a really fast time. She is ready to go (for championship season). I'm excited to see what she will do the last few meets in a MVL XC uniform." Moeller has given the girls' side a "1" in every race, but it hasn't always led to team titles. At West Delaware, MVL finished with 69 points, beating Maquoketa Valley (96), Tipton (101) and Solon (112). "Another great performance," Swart said. "The girls are improving every meet." Swart said Miranda Sellner, who finished ninth in 20:36.6, really delivered. And Caroline Rupe, who was the fifth score in 29th place, ran well coming back from an injury. Rose Pisarik was 12th and Sorell Telecky was 13th. There was less than a minute separating the second, third, fourth and fifth Mustang runners. "We are getting better at that all the time," Swart said. "It is great from a team standpoint." The WaMaC Meet was set for Wednesday, Oct. 14, at Seminole Valley in Cedar Rapids. As of Monday, Oct. 12, the Mustangs were still waiting to see where they'd run the SQM (likely either Independence or Washington). State is Saturday, Oct. 31, for Class 3A, at Lakeside Municipal Golf Course in Fort Dodge. West Delaware Hawks Invitational Boys team scores - 1. Mount Vernon-Lisbon 59; 2. Anamosa 88; 3. Marion 118; 4. Clear Lake 124; 5. WaverlyShell Rock 143; 6. Solon 169; 7. Springville 179; 8. Oelwein 211; 9. Starmont-West Central 218; 10. Tipton 239; 11. Center Point-Urbana 277; 12. North Fayette Valley 280; 13. Dyersville Beckman 292; 14. West Delaware 303; 15. Cascade 410; 16. Maquoketa Valley 477; 17. Independence 493. Top 5 - 1. Collin Cook (Marion) 16:26.5; 2. Kyler Happel (MVL) 16:29.1; 3. Kaiden Irvine (Oelwein) 16:31.4; 4. Tate Tysdahl (CL) 16:42.3; 5. Jackson Burrell (Ana) 16:46.6. MVL - 2. Happel 16:29.1; 7. Anthony Armstrong 17:04.4; 8. Connor Teague 17:07.5; 12. Casey Swart 17:29.4; 30. Dashtyn Caskey 18:!6.8; 36. Hawke Mason 18:35.3; 65. Logan Ericson 19:18.8. Girls team scores - 1. Mount Vernon-Lisbon 69; 2. Maquoketa Valley 96; 3. Tipton 101; 4. Solon 112; 5. Center Point-Urbana 134; 6. Marion 153; 7. Maquoketa 159; 8. Oelwein 205; 9. West Delaware 216; 10. Cascade 247; 11. Waverly-Shell Rock 315; 12. Anamosa 323; 13. North Fayette Valley 324; 14. Dyersville Beckman 328; 15. Springville 399. Top 5 - 1. Evelyn Moeller (MVL) 17:26.6; 2. Aaliyah Causey (CPU) 18:37.9; 3. Abigail Miller (Maq) 19:09.1; 4. Avery Mente (Tipton) 19:46.3; 5. Emerson Dabroski (Marion) 20:02.2. MVL - 1. Moeller 17:26.6; 9. Miranda Sellner 20:36.6; 12. Rose Pisarik 20:42.5; 13. Sorell Telecky 21:11.3; 29. Caroline Rupe 21:31.2; 48. Torie Johnson 22:15.4; 50. Josie Bothell 22:34.2.
Emma Reiter | For the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
Mount Vernon running back Jakob Yock cuts through defenders during a football game against Central Dewitt at Mount Vernon High School Friday, Oct. 9. Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
Mount Vernon football was always going to have to dig deep to earn a playoff spot. The Mustangs are chasing the 30th playoff season in school history, and fifth straight. And so far, so good. A week after escaping Center Point-Urbana with a 30-26 win with a late touchdown, the Mustangs delivered in the fourth quarter again to beat Central DeWitt, 17-10, on Friday, Oct. 9, at Armstrong Field. Junior quarterback Noah Olsen connected with tight end Graham Yanda for a 35-yard score in the fourth quarter. "Noah scrambled and Graham did a great job of realizing the play was broken, and took off towards the end zone," Mount Vernon Coach Brad Meester said. "Noah saw him. A couple of defenders got there, but Graham
went up and got it, and sealed it for us." When the Sabers got the ball back, Easton Reasland came up with an key interception. "The defense was great all day stopping them," Meester said. The last Mustang touchdown was impressive, but so was the first one. Holden Hlavacek made a touchdown-saving tackle on a long run by Central DeWitt, and the Sabers had to kick a field goal. Mount Vernon got the ball back, went on a 22-play, 97-yard drive. "We did it by running the ball," Meester said. "At the quarter, we flipped sides, and ended up where we started. That took the wind out of them a little bit." With Mount Vernon up 10-3 at half, the Sabers tied it up before the game-winning touchdown midway through the fourth quarter. "We knew it was going to be a fourth-quarter game, and we talked to
the kids about it," Meester said. "They beat us last year. We knew it was going to be a battle." Senior Jakob Yock finished with 166 yards and a TD on 32 carries. Olsen was 10-of-16 passing for 120 yards. Yanda also had two tackles for loss on defense, including 1.5 sacks, and Hlavacek had two interceptions. "Offensively, we're running the ball more, which means less catches for (Holden)," Meester said. "But he has done a phenomenal job on the defensive side." Mount Vernon (6-1, 3-0) heads to Dubuque Wahlert (4-3, 1-2) this week in control of its own destiny. Davenport Assumption (5-2, 3-0) awaits in Week 9. The Golden Eagles beat the Mustangs last season, 23-21. "Another huge week," Meester said. "We said the last three weeks was a gauntlet. Wahlert is fighting for their playoff life, too. Their backs are against the wall. We'll get everything they've got."
LISBON VOLLEYBALL
Lions 2-1 at Hudson Invite
Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
The lessons continued for the Lisbon volleyball team. In their first season in the River Valley South, the Lions finished 0-6 in conference play, dropping their final RVC match at Mid-Prairie on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 25-16, 19-25, 25-13, 25-13. "It is a product of our competition," Lisbon coach Lance Kamaus said. "The RVC South has someone to deal with every night. I'm not asking for a night off, but you just don't get one. "I'm pleased with our group, they have shown the ability to compete." Kamaus has seen his young team improve against a loaded RVC South. "It is hard to see the progress when you are used to something else. But we're getting closer. Hopefully, we'll
turn some losses into wins in the years to come," he said. Quinn Roos led the offense in Wellman with 11 kills. Kayla Bergmann had nine kills and Shea Benhart added six kills. Kinsley Jo Kamaus had 28 assists and eight digs, Benhart led with 10 digs, and libero Kyla Kahl had nine digs. The good news for Lisbon, there isn't an RVC South team in the Class 2A Region 7 bracket, released last week. The bad news, the Lions will have to push through No. 10 Hudson and then likely No. 7 Woodward-Granger to get to state. "We were prepared to travel, but we get to host the first round," Kamaus said. Lisbon (22-13) hosts South Hardin (10-20) in a regional quarterfinal on Wednesday, Oct. 21. Win, and they'll have to travel to Hudson.
And Lisbon found out how good Hudson is this past weekend at the Hudson Tournament. The Lions beat Don Bosco (18-21, 21-11, 15-4) and West Central (21-12, 20-22, 15-13) in pool play before falling to Hudson (21-14, 21-8). "Honestly, we were competitive (with Hudson)," Kamaus said. "We had a few stretches were we didn't serve receive well. The kids felt we can match up with them." Advancing to the semifinals Saturday, Oct. 10, at Hudson, Lisbon lost to No. 9 (1A) Cedar Ridge Christian, 25-21, 25-21. "We led all the way in the second set, but they scored six straight at the end," Kamaus said. Olivia Gogel came in to run the offense at setter after K.J. Kamaus aggravated an injury. "She did a nice job," Coach Kamaus said.
CALENDAR & PUZZLES
MVLSUN.COM | MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | 11
Edited by Will Shortz No. 0910
CHURCHES MOUNT VERNON St. Paul Lutheran Church L.C.M.S. 600 Fifth Avenue South Pastor: Rev. Harrison Goodman, Vacancy Pastor www.splcmv.org; send e-mail to info@splcmv.org Sun.: 11 a.m. In-person worship Please refer to our website or contact the church directly for additional worship information. First Presbyterian Church 301 1st St. N.W. www.firstpresmv.com 319-895-6060 Pastor: Rev. Lori Wunder Sun.: 9:30 a.m. in-person worship. Online services stream beginning at 9:20 a.m. on Facebook St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Rev. Ken Glaser, Pastor Sun.: 8:30 a.m. Mass Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Justus Hallam, Bishop Meeting at: 4300 Trailridge Rd. SE, Cedar Rapids Sun.: 11:30 a.m. in person services. Also an option for digital worship services. United Methodist Church Pastor Vicki Fisher www.umcnv.com An LGBTQ affirming congregation Sundays: In-person and live stream at 8:30 a.m. (Praise Service) and 11 a.m. (traditional service); Sunday School (pre-k through eighth grade; Adult classes) at 9:45 a.m. Livestream link for both services can be found on the church website. Wed.: Rooted Youth Group at 6:30 p.m. (Sixth through eighth grade, multi-church youth group with First Presbyterian and Seeds of Faith Lutheran Church. Follow our Facebook page. Community Bible Church 940 W Mt. Vernon Rd. mvcbc.org, 895-6269 Teaching Pastor Brandon Glaza Discipleship Pastor Dennis Fulkerson Family, Youth, Children Pastor Lonnie Speidel Sun.- 9:30 Worship Service, 11 AM School, 6 PM Sr. High Youth Group Wed.- 6 PM Encounter and Jr. High Youth Group
livinghopegmc.org Pastor Andrew Bee Services live streamed at Living Hope Global Methodist Church’s YouTube page Sundays at 9:45 a.m. Sun.: 9:45 a.m. — In-person worship. Seeds of Faith Lutheran Church, ELCA 798 Brenneman Lane, 455-2599 (Off Hwy. 30 on eastern edge of Lisbon) www.seedsoffaithlutheran.org/ Pastor Erika Uthe 9 a.m. — In-person worship. Services also livestream via Seeds’ Facebook Page.
BERTRAM United Methodist Church 319-365-8077 Rev. Jay Admundson, Pastor Sun.: 10:30 a.m. — In-person worship service
MARTELLE Christian Church Sun.: 10:30 a.m. — in person worship service Services also stream online at Martelle Christian Church’s YouTube page. United Methodist Church Sun.: 10:30 a.m. Worship service. No Sunday school.
SPRINGVILLE United Methodist Church Sun.: 9 a.m. Worship service. Wed.: 6:30 p.m. Praise service Faith Christian Fellowship Pastor Joseph Bielema Sun.: 9:30 a.m. worship at Springville Memorial Library, in the Buresh Room (264 Broadway Street) St. Isidore Catholic Church Sat.: 6 p.m. Mass
Linn Grove Presbyterian 2000 Linn Grove Rd., Mt. Vernon Sun: 9 a.m. in-person worship, also, weekly readings, prayers and sermons are posted on the church’s Facebook page.
MECHANICSVILLE
Baha’i Faith Nina Scott, Group Secretary, 319-270-9230
First Presbyterian Church 408 E. First Street.
CrossLife Community Church Pastor Erik Bennett Sun.: 10:30 a.m. – In-person worship service. Services also livestream on Facebook page.
LISBON Living Hope Global Methodist Church 200 E. Market St., 455-2000
Living Hope Bible Church Mechanicsville Memorial Building
Christian Community Church of Mechanicsville 307 East First Street 563-432-7716 Sun: Sunday School 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Worship service 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. St. Mary’s Catholic Church Pastor: Father James Flattery Thurs.: 8:30 a.m. — mass Sun.: 8 a.m. Mass
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, Oct. 15
Story Time, Cornell College Cole Library Browsing Room, 9:30 a.m. Fiber Friends, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10:30 a.m. Fall Community Book Talk, Cornell College Cole Library second floor, noon. Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center Adult Speaker series “Understanding Economic Inequality in the U.S.” by Todd Knoop, LBC, 1 p.m. Write Together, Lisbon Public Library, 1:30 p.m. Cornell College Touch Grass event, Cornell College Cole Library, 1-3 p.m. MVLCDG Small Business Networking event, Iron Leaf Press, 5-7 p.m. Phyllis and Howard Ciha recognition ceremony, Lisbon Public Library, 6 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 16
Bingo, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m. Linn Lunch Bunch, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 17
Rhubarb Botanicals farm store, Rhubarb Botanicals farm, 9 a.m. to noon No Kings Rally, First Street Community Center, 11:30 a.m.
Monday, Oct. 19
Bingo, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m.
Linn Lunch Bunch, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mount Vernon City Council, Mount Vernon City Hall, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 20
Across
1 TikTok stars, to many 6 Locale for an old flame? 10 Shell in the water 14 December air 15 Who’s that woman in Paris? 16 Red-haired outdoorsman in Genesis 17 Per_w_nkle? 19 Rider’s line 20 Raison d’___ 21 Holding liable 23 More apt to cut in line, say 26 Keep from leaving port through low visibility 27 New Year’s date, concisely 28 Simulator of coastal phenomena 31 Cleared of dust, say 32 Targets for hawks 33 Literary name that’s a letter short of its holder’s occupation 34 Proc_dur_? 38 Horror director Aster 39 Starting points of many Jewish observances 40 Dull and dim 41 Abstract 44 Oldest sister on “The Brady Bunch” 45 Bad spelling, perhaps 46 Ground-dwelling game bird of the western U.S. 47 Portmanteau for a radical environmentalist 49 [“Your fly is open”] 50 Choo-choo noise 51 Grou_ of_or_oises? 56 Dance done in concentric circles 57 Leaves for drinks 58 Construction site sight 59 Decides to take part, with “in” 60 Skin-care brand with a “cheer”-ful sounding name 61 Filler akin to “like …” or “I mean …”
Down
1 Winter coat? 2 Word with trader or tripper 3 Something you might search for in vein? 4 Despair 5 Find a spot for, as on a schedule 6 Utah’s ___ State University 7 Laid up 8 Grooved parts of golf irons 9 Go *clunk* 10 Solitary sort 11 Min_sc_le q_antity? 12 Reposed 13 Pipe organ? 18 Not busy 22 Season 23 Represent 24 Incautious 25 Pla_e for a _ase? 28 Supplies for a diaper change 29 Annoying knuckling 30 Like 29 winners in the first 50 New York City Marathons 32 Rotating feature at the cinema 35 Take responsibility for, in a way 36 Pitching staff? 37 Evidence of burning rubber 42 Release volatile compounds to the air 43 Vent opening? 44 When doubled, Hawaiian for “very strong” 46 Irreverent 47 Say again 48 Dice, e.g. 52 Remote power source 53 Completely savage 54 Middle name shared by Sean and John Lennon 55 Ground water?
Lego Club, Cornell College Cole Library Room 108, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Yarn Squad, Cornell College Cole Library, 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Early out Mount Vernon Schools Washington Elementary Parent-teacher conferences, 1:45-5:45 p.m. Mount Vernon Middle School parent teacher conferences 2-6 p.m. Mount Vernon High School parent teacher conferences, 2-6 p.m. FAFSA Night, Mount Vernon High School, 3-7 p.m. Dog Tales, Lisbon Public Library, 4 p.m. Voices United with Chris Hoklotubbe, Whitey's Bar and Grill, 5 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 22
Story Time, Cornell College Cole Library Browsing Room, 9:30 a.m. Fiber Friends, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10:30 a.m. Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center Adult Speaker series “Iowa’s Trumpeter Swans: A Conservation Success Story” by Anna Buckardt Thomas, LBC, 1 p.m.
SUDOKU To play: Complete the grid so that every row, column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. There is no guessing or math involved, just use logic to solve.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ON PAGE 2
PUBLIC NOTICES
12 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 IowaPublicNotices.com LINN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
CEDAR RAPIDS, LINN COUNTY, IOWA MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 10:00 A.M. (These are the minutes in their entirety. Archived minutes can be found at www. linncountyiowa.gov) The Board met in session at the Linn County Jean Oxley Public Service Center. Present: Chairperson Running-Marquardt, Vice Chairperson Scheetz and Supervisor Meisheid. Board members voting “AYE” unless otherwise noted. Chairperson Running-Marquardt called the meeting to order. Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to approve minutes of September 21 & 22, 2026 as printed. Motion by Scheetz, seconded by Meisheid to approve claims dated 09/25/2026 for payroll deduction Check Nos. 71022400 to 71022403 in the amount of $3,531.80, ACH in the amount of $92,429.32, EFT wire in the amount of $39,299.46 and a Ceridian ER Funds Trust Wire in the amount of $2,405,114.20, for a total of $2,540,374.78. Mike Tertinger, Planning & Development, presented a Resolution to set a public hearing date of October 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. for a request to rezone 68.45 acres located in the 6000 block of Tower Terrace Road, Cedar Rapids, Iowa from Agricultural (AG) to Rural Residential 2-Acre (RR2). This is running concurrently with a plat. There are some issues that may come to light during the public hearing which include drainage concerns, the Sportsman Club, and the flood plain. Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to adopt Resolution 2026-9-127 A RESOLUTION SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING ON A PROPOSAL TO REZONE A 68.45 ACRE PARCEL FROM AGRICULTURAL (AG) TO RURAL RESIDENTIAL 2-ACRE (RR2) DISTRICT ON A PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE 6000 BLOCK OF TOWER TERRACE ROAD, CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA WHEREAS, the Linn County Planning and Development Department presented the Linn County Board of Supervisors with a proposal to rezone a 68.45 acre parcel from Agricultural (AG) to Rural Residential 2-Acre (RR2) District on a property located in the 6000 block of Tower Terrace Road, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and, WHEREAS, the Linn County Board of Supervisors hereby finds that it is desirable to hold a public hearing to consider the proposal to rezone a 68.45 acre parcel from Agricultural (AG) to Rural Residential 2-Acre (RR2) District on a property located in the 6000 block of Tower Terrace Road, Cedar Rapids, Iowa and that Linn County should publish a notice thereof as required by law. BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Linn County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on the proposal to rezone a 68.45 acre parcel from Agricultural (AG) to Rural Residential 2-Acre (RR2) District on a property located in the 6000 block of Tower Terrace Road, Cedar Rapids, Iowa on October 12, 2026 at 10:00 am in the Formal Board Room of the Linn County Public Service Center located at 935 2nd Street SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at which time any interested person may provide public comment on the proposed ordinance, and after hearing any and all public comments, the Board may proceed with the approval of the proposed ordinance. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors directs the publication of a notice of public hearing in accordance with Iowa Code Section 331.305. BJ Dvorak, EMA Coord., discussed a 28E Agreement between the Linn County Emergency Management Agency and the City of Marion, Iowa, acting by and through the Marion Fire Department, for Joint Radiological Emergency Response Support Services. This agreement allows the Marion Fire Dept. to support EMA in the event of a serious accident at the Duane Arnold Energy Center. The City of Marion and Linn County’s legal counsel have reviewed this 28E with no issues. Supervisor Running-Marquardt questioned the financials of this agreement and Dvorak responded that they would work through EMA if anything comes up. Running-Marquardt also asked Dvorak to run the agreement by the Finance Director prior to the Board’s approval. Supervisor Meisheid stated that she is grateful for the partnership with Marion. The Board will approve Wednesday. Public Comment: Jon Lee, 2510 Sisley Grove Rd. SW, Cedar Rapids, stated that he is talking about the proposed Morgan Valley Energy Center. He read an excerpt from Linn County’s ordinance regarding the 2.25-mile setback and population center. He questioned Alliant about who the closest city would be and they said Fairfax. The question is whether to zone for a power plant that will sit right on the Benton County line and their ordinance is the only zoning protection they have. Lee is asking staff to measure the stacks and read the results, prior to October 20th. This is just one reason to vote no on October 20th. Supervisor Meisheid shared a reminder that the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting on Morgan Valley is at 6 p.m. tonight at Kirkwood. People can watch the meeting via Teams but cannot participate through Teams. Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to approve the reappointment of Sally Williams to the Fairfax Library Board by Mayor JoAnn Beer, for a six-year term ending July 1, 2032. Adjournment at 10:15 a.m. Respectfully submitted, TODD E. TAYLOR, Linn County Auditor By: Amanda Brown, Deputy Auditor Approved by: KIRSTEN RUNNING-MARQUARDT, Chairperson Board of Supervisors Published in the Sun October 15, 2026.
LINN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
CEDAR RAPIDS, LINN COUNTY, IOWA WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2026 10:00 A.M. (These are the minutes in their entirety. Archived minutes can be found at www. linncountyiowa.gov)
The Board met in session at the Linn County Jean Oxley Public Service Center. Present: Chairperson Running-Marquardt, Vice Chairperson Scheetz and Supervisor Meisheid. Board members voting “AYE” unless otherwise noted. Chairperson Running-Marquardt called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Public Comment: Jo Ann Beer, Fairfax Mayor, stated that she will be speaking on two topics that are on today’s agenda. The first one is the residential split for the Boland Farm property. She explained that it was never officially determined if Faifax or Atkins would take the lead on this as both are about 1.7 miles from the property. Fairfax chose to defer to Atkins and let them proceed. Fairfax is not in favor of the land split as they don’t feel it is in their best interest for the future land use plan. She welcomes Fairfax being a part of the Data Center Advisory Committee. Jon Lee, 2510 Sisley Grove Rd. SW, Cedar Rapids, asked the Board to take the Boland Farm property split decision seriously and weigh everything. He asked that their decisions are to protect the homeowner and the families who live around the property. Lee supports creating the Data Center Advisory Committee and asks that the people who live with its decision have a real voice in it. People can argue the benefits of data centers, but shouldn’t they first consider what it means for those people that live next door before it’s built. He asked that the majority of the committee be people living in the rural, unincorporated Linn County. The people who have to live with the data center should never be outnumbered by the people who will profit from it. He asked that no more than 1/3 of the members of people are those who would profit from it by developing, building, powering or running data centers. If seats are filled by appointment, he is asked that the seats open to the public application also be no more than 1/3 of people who would profit so the residents who step up and apply have a real voice. He is also asking that every application discloses their financial ties in writing and those disclosures be made public and kept up to date. Lee then asked that the Board hold these limits when they make these appointments. He also asked that the committee meet in the evenings with time for public comment so working people can serve and come and listen. He wants the committee to report and comment to this Board in public on a regular schedule. People across the county are worried about decisions on data centers being made by the people who profit from them. He asked each Supervisor how they will make sure this committee actually protects this community from what they keep hearing about in other places. Will they expect the committee to protect their natural resources and protect the health and wellbeing of the people who live here higher than an economic goal or the tax money from one project. Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to approve minutes of September 23, 2026 as printed. Motion by Scheetz, seconded by Meisheid to approve accounts payable checks dated 09/30/26 #71022404 to #71022436 in the amount of $90,744.04; and ACH in the amount of $1,180,237.85; for a total of $1,270,981.89. Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Meisheid to approve payment to Sami Scheetz in the amount of $225.00 for cell phone reimbursement. VOTE: Running-Marquardt & Meisheid – Aye, Scheetz - Abstain Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to approve Consent Agenda as follows: Resolution 2026-9-1298 A RESOLUTION TO AWARD AND AUTHORIZE ENGINEERS TO SIGN CONTRACT FOR THE REPAIR OF BRIDGE 2151 ON MARTELLE RD OVER ELBOW CREEK AND PILE CAP REPAIR ON BRIDGE 1040 ON SMYTH RD OVER ABBE CREEK WHEREAS, the Linn County Board of Supervisors, hereafter referred to as “the Board”, believes the M-LOST-BRIDGE 2151 REPAIR(27), hereafter referred to as “the project” is in the best interest of Linn County, Iowa, and the residents thereof. The project is defined as bridge repair on bridge 2151 on Martelle Rd over Elbow Creek and pile cap repair on bridge 1040 on Smyth Rd over Abbe Creek; and WHEREAS, the Board has sought appropriate professional guidance for the concept and planning for the project and followed the steps as required by the Code of Iowa for notifications, hearings, and bidding/letting; and WHEREAS, The Board finds this resolution appropriate and necessary to protect, preserve, and improve the rights, privileges, property, peace, safety, health, welfare, comfort, and convenience of Linn County and its citizens, all as provided for in and permitted by section 331.301 of the Code of Iowa; and IT IS THEREFORE RESOLVED by Board to accept the bid from Taylor Construction, Inc. in the amount of $134,800 and awards the associated contract(s) to the same; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all other resolutions or parts of resolutions in conflict with this resolution are hereby repealed. If any part of this resolution is adjudged invalid or unconstitutional, such adjudication shall not affect the validity of the resolution or action of The Board as a whole or any part thereof not adjudged invalid or unconstitutional. This resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after the date of its approval as provided by law; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Linn County Board of Supervisors, that after receiving the necessary contract documents, including but not limited to, the contractor’s bond and certificate of insurance, Bradley J. Ketels or Garret A. Reddish, the County Engineer or Assistant County Engineer for Linn County, Iowa, be and is hereby designated, authorized, and empowered on behalf of the Board of Supervisors of said County to execute the contracts in connection with the afore awarded construction project let on 9/22/2026. Approve and authorize the Chairperson to sign a Service Agreement between Linn County Juvenile Detention Center (LCJDC) and South Slope for internet service at LCJDC in the amount of $96.20 per month and a nonrecurring install and activation fee of $125. Effective September 30, 2026.
Approve and authorize the Chairperson to sign a 28E Agreement between the Linn County Emergency Management Agency and the City of Marion, Iowa, acting by and through the Marion Fire Department, for Joint Radiological Emergency Response Support Services. Approve and authorize the Chairperson to sign a letter of support for Linn County's application for the Financial Empowerment Center Planning Grant, including participation in the FEC Academy by designated County staff. Approve one Assessment Year 2025 Homestead allowance as recommended by Assessor. Approve one Assessment Year 2026 Homestead allowance as recommended by Assessor. Dave Beuter, Sheriff’s Office, presented a 5-year Security Systems Care Agreement between Linn County Correctional Center (LCCC) and Communications Engineering Company (CEC) to provide support and maintenance for the cameras and server at the LCCC in the amount of $98,334 effective October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2031. This agreement is to protect all of the cameras they have. Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to approve a 5-year Security Systems Care Agreement between Linn County Correctional Center (LCCC) and Communications Engineering Company (CEC) to provide support and maintenance for the cameras and server at the LCCC in the amount of $98,334 effective October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2031. Stephanie Lientz, Planning & Development, discussed a Resolution Approving a Residential Parcel Split for Boland Farm located at 12201 16th Avenue, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This went to the Planning & Zoning Commission in July and was approved with the condition that staff place it on the regular agenda. This is a request for a 1 lot residential parcel split to divide from the remainder of the ag land (about 150 acres). The applicant met the conditions and provided all of the necessary documentation and property owners were notified. She explained that it is not Linn County’s responsibility to determine who the closest city is. They rely upon the surveyor that was hired for that, and they did receive an approval letter from Atkins. It meets all the standards for approval for a residential parcel split. Supervisor Running-Marquardt questioned a future annexation with the city of Fairfax, but Lientz was unsure of that. She added that they have to try and balance if it’s not a typical sort of parcel split because of everything going on with the Morgan Valley Power Plant. She learned this morning that Fairfax is in opposition to it. Running-Marquardt needs more time to look at it with the information she has received. She would like to take into consideration what the city of Fairfax is thinking as well since it would impact them down the road. This is a very sensitive parcel of land and project that are out of the norm. Supervisors Meisheid and Scheetz would also like additional time to review this parcel split as well. The Board will discuss it again on Monday. Charlie Nichols, Planning & Development Dir., discussed the creation of a Data Center Advisory Committee, including the application process, committee structure, and proposed work plan for the data center
Published in the Sun October 15, 2026.
moratorium work. The committee meetings will look at their ordinance. They are proposing a 40-member committee consisting of Linn County local government and regional partners with the remaining seats filled by Linn County residents. They are looking at 6-8 meetings total that cover the following topics: energy and grid infrastructure, water resources, siting and planning, and zoning regulation and lifecycle. The committee will make draft recommendations/statements and thoughts on these topics before going in front of the Board on how to change their ordinance. Supervisor Meisheid stated that this is a process that allows constituents to have a voice in how Linn County grows. Every community is allowed to send a representative. She is excited to have the collaboration with towns and residents. Supervisor Running-Marquardt expressed her appreciation to Meisheid for her work on this. They have a good ordinance, but it could be better in a couple areas such as where energy is coming from, pollution, water usage, light pollution, sound and traffic to name a few. She looks forward to the upcoming robust conversations. It was the consensus of the Board that this item be on Monday’s agenda for their decision. Nichols then discussed a contract with East Central Iowa Council of Governments for as-needed facilitation services for the Linn County Data Center Advisory Committee. This is a safety net in case Linn County staff are unable to attend a meeting. The cost is $225 per facilitator per meeting. Supervisor Scheetz questioned where the funding would come from and Nichols explained that it would come out of his department’s budget. Supervisor Meisheid added that this model was borrowed from the Mount Vernon School District. Since there will be differing views, that is the need for a facilitator. Supervisor Running-Marquardt added that this is a good idea, and she appreciates all of the work that has been done to get them to this point. Board members requested that Nichols have legal counsel and Finance and Budget review the contract. The Board will approve Monday. Public Comment: Jon Lee, 2510 Sisley Grove Rd. SW, Cedar Rapids, stated that Monday was the Planning & Zoning meeting and he did not come away feeling like this plant fits the comprehensive plan. The only people that spoke in support were from a union. People drove a long way to tell their stories, and they should listen to the people. A lot of questions were asked at that meeting, and Lee could tell they weren’t getting the answers they were looking for. No one made a motion to approve the application. They made a motion to table it and ask Alliant for more information. This decision shouldn’t rest on a few years of construction or the tax money from one property. He is asking the Boad to give the weight to the health and welfare of this community and to their air quality. The plans goals are to protect and enhance the health and safety of all Linn County residents and to protect or improve local air quality. Their staff found that the plant does not support either of those. People in this community are worried and are afraid and they are counting on each of them to learn everything they can to make the right decision when this
MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN | MVLSUN.COM comes before them. 30 years from now when the children in the community are sitting in their chairs will they still want to live here or will they be stuck fixing what his generation got wrong. The people of the community deserve answers for their children. Jo Ann Beer, Fairfax Mayor, thanked the Board for postponing decisions until Monday. She will work to answer any questions they have about the 28E agreement with Cedar Rapids for the Boland Farms split. She also questioned relating to the data center committee if city representatives have to apply separately from residents. Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to approve payroll authorizations (detail is available upon request). Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to enter into a Closed Session pursuant to Iowa Code §21.5 to discuss two separate matters: discuss pending litigation pursuant to Iowa Code §21.5(1)(c) and review and discuss the terms of a draft economic development agreement. The Board expects the related materials to be confidential under Iowa Code §22.7(65) and Iowa Code §22.7(6). Communications with counsel concerning such matters are intended to remain confidential and may be protected by attorney-client privilege under Iowa law. VOTE: Meisheid – Aye, Running-Marquardt – Aye, Scheetz - Aye Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Scheetz to go out of closed session. VOTE: Meisheid – Aye, Running-Marquardt – Aye, Scheetz - Aye Adjournment at 11:40 a.m. Respectfully submitted, TODD E. TAYLOR, Linn County Auditor By: Amanda Brown, Deputy Auditor Approved by: KIRSTEN RUNNING-MARQUARDT, Chairperson Board of Supervisors Published in the Sun October 15, 2026.
LINN COUNTY LIST OF BILLS PAID
FOR 9-24-26 THROUGH 9-30-2026 https://www.linncountyiowa.gov/413/ Accounting-Services VENDOR DESCRIPTION AMOUNT 32 GENTLE DENTAL LLC DENTAL SERVICES............................................$657.00 A-1 RENTAL COOLER TUB RENTALS ........ .......................................................$91.56 AARHUS, ANTHONY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 ABBE CTR FOR CMH CONTRACT LABOR.. ..................................................$9,667.62 ACCESS SYSTEMS TECHNICAL SERVICES............................................$565.32 ADCRAFT PRINTING CO INC OFFICE SUPPLIES............................................$634.00 AHLERS & COONEY PC CONSULTANT FEES................................................$72.00 AHRENDSEN, MITCHELL L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$105.00 ALLEN, NATHAN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 ALLIANT UTILITIES UTILITIES..$5,541.51 ALLIANT UTILITIES - ASSISTANCE GENERAL ASSISTANCE....................$4,227.93 ALLIED GLASS BUILDINGS & GROUND REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE.......$1,210.00 ALLIED OIL & TIRE CO LLC ANTIFREEZE.. .....................................................$470.25 ANAHEIM CORPORATION CONTRACT LABOR.......................................$4,807.38
ANDERSON ERICKSON DAIRY CO FOOD & PROVISIONS.............................$160.60 ANDERSON, ISAAC C QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 ANDERSON-BOGERT ENGINEERS & SURVEYORS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES......... ..................................................$4,150.50 ANTON SALES HARDWARE & STORAGE BINS..........................................$1,288.02 AREA AMBULANCE MED EXAM FEES........ ..................................................$8,193.00 ARRO SENIOR APARTMENTS GENERAL ASSISTANCE.................................$550.00 ASCHBRENNER, COLIN P TRAINING EXPENSE...........................................$560.67 ASH, MELISSA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB .....................................................$180.00 BAKER GROUP ACCESS CARDS...$799.00 BARNES, LANDON QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 BATCHELDER, AARON QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 BAUER BUILT INC TIRE REPAIR...$128.00 BEAMAN, CRYSTAL A APPEAL TRANSCRIPT...........................................$10.00 BEARROWS, SARA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 BEGLEY, ANTHONY M QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 BETSWORTH, RHONDA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$120.00 BEUTER, THEODORE D QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB................................$90.00 BOGARD, CHARLES QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 BOREN, NICHOLAS L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$105.00 BROWN, AMANDA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 BROWN, NICHOLE QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$195.00 BRUSH AND WEED CONTROL SPECIALISTS INC ROADSIDE SPRAYING................ ..................................................$1,950.00 BURKE, RANDALL QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 BUTTERFIELD, CHRISTOPHER J TRAINING EXPENSE.................................$31.27 CAPITAL SANITARY SUPPLY - CEDAR RAPIDS CLEANING SUPPLIES..$4,340.28 CARTER BALDWIN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 CCG SAFETY GEAR LLC REPLACEMENT BALLISTIC VESTS....................$16,431.50 CDW GOVT NETWORK EQUIPMENT.......... ..................................................$9,377.60 CEDAR MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME COMPANY GENERAL ASSISTANCE............ ..................................................$6,000.00 CEDAR RAPIDS CITY OF FUEL..$7,751.03 CEDAR RAPIDS CITY OF (INSURANCE) PAYROLL DEDUCTION...............$1,194.00 CEDAR RAPIDS COMMUNITY SCHOOL DIST OTHER TRANSPORTATION....$80.97 CEDAR RAPIDS MUNICIPAL UTILITIES ASSISTANCE GENERAL ASSISTANCE........ .....................................................$562.63 CEDAR VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SAFE HOME PROGRAM EXPENSES........... ..................................................$3,369.50 CERIDIAN ER FUNDS TRUST - GARNISH PAYROLL DEDUCTION...............$4,446.61 CERIDIAN ER FUNDS TRUST - NET PAY PAYROLL DEDUCTION........$1,728,359.61 CERIDIAN ER FUNDS TRUST - TAXES PAYROLL DEDUCTION...........$672,307.98 CERRUTO, MATTHEW J MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT...................................$39.14 CHARM-TEX INC COMMISSARY ITEMS.... ..................................................$1,296.80 CHARTER RENTAL HOMES LLC GENERAL ASSISTANCE.................................$900.00 CHILDREN OF PROMISE MENTORING PROGRAM BOYS AND GIRLS MENTORING PROGRAM..........................$3,755.00
PUBLIC NOTICES
MVLSUN.COM | MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN
CJ COOPER & ASSOCIATES INC PRE EMPLOYMENT DRUG SCREENS........$195.00 CLARK, MAURISA S FITNESS REIMBURSEMENT.................................$120.00 CORRIDOR ENERGY COOPERATIVE - ASSISTANCE GENERAL ASSISTANCE............ .....................................................$181.71 CRAWFORD SUPPLY COMPANY COMMISSARY ITEMS...........................$592.56 CRUSH OF IOWA SAFE OPIOID SERVICES PROGRAM.................................$6,273.20 CUSTOM HOSE & SUPPLIES INC PARTS.. .....................................................$649.25 CUTTING EDGE GRAPHICS INC VINYL STICKERS ....................................$944.00 DAN'S OVERHEAD DOORS & MORE DOOR REPAIR..............................$361.00 DATAWORKS PLUS LLC INMATE 12" ARM BANDS.......................................$1,000.00 DAUGHERTY, ANTHONY TRAVEL/TRAINING REIMB....................................$399.88 DAVIS, VICKI TRAVEL/TRAINING REIMB... .....................................................$153.22 DAVISON, ROBERT W ATTORNEY FEES.... ..................................................$2,230.40 DE NOVO ALTERNATIVE MARKETING ADVERTISING...............................$15,000.00 DELEON, KELSEY TRANSCRIPT.....$65.00 DELTA DENTAL OF IOWA - LEGAL PAYROLL DEDUCTION.....................$3,031.80 DIAMOND DRUGS INC PRESCRIPTIONS.. .....................................................$446.16 DOSCHER, THEODORE QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$165.00 DOSTAL CATERING SERVICE HEALTH AND SAFETY FAIR FOOD...........$3,570.00 DWIVEDI, PRAMOD QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 EHRISMAN, KELLY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$150.00 EIBEN, THOMAS L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 ELKIN, JEREMY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 EQUITABLE THE (CR CITY ASSR) PAYROLL DEDUCTION..........................$75.00 EQUITABLE THE (LINN CO ASSR) PAYROLL DEDUCTION........................$325.00 ERCEG, STEPHEN S QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$105.00 ESTENSON, STEVEN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 FIDLAR TECHNOLOGIES INC RECORDS DIGITIZATION PROJECT & OTHER RECORDINGS.............................$152,804.00 FINGER, NICOLE QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 FISCHER, LUKE J QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 FITZGERALD, JANE M TRANSCRIPT......... .....................................................$123.75 FOSTER, DEBBIE S APPEAL TRANSCRIPT .....................................................$380.00 FOSTER, ERIN E QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 TRAVEL/TRAINING REIMB............$252.08 FOUNDATION 2 INC LINN COUNTY SHELTER............................................$6,484.35 SAFE, EQUITABLE AND THRIVING YOUTH AND COMMUNITIES..................$7,088.53 FRIEDA COONROD EMBROIDERY UNIFORMS..........................................$284.50 FUSIONSITE SERVICES LLC PORT O POTTIE................................................$136.40 GALLS LLC UNIFORMS.............$1,548.72 GARDNER, BRIAN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 GAULE LLC GENERAL ASSISTANCE.......... .....................................................$900.00 GAZETTE COMMUNICATIONS LEGAL NOTICES..............................................$36.09 GIBBINS, DANIEL QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$60.00 GODWIN, THERESA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 GOEMAAT, DENNIS QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$150.00 GORDON FLESCH COMPANY INC COPIER LEASE & FEES...........................$3,589.68 GRAHAM, MICHEL QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 GRAINGER W W INC PARTS.........$271.39 GRAY LOCAL MEDIA, INC PEER RECOVERY COACH AND OVERDOSE/INFECTION CONTROL STRATEGIES CAMPAIGN.......... ..................................................$4,000.00 GRAY, HAROLD W CONTRACT LABOR...... .......................................................$45.00 GRUNEWALDT, AMY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$105.00 HAIGHT, NICHOLAS S QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 HAJEK, JANEAN K QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 HALVORSON, STEPHANIE HEALTH ASSISTANCE.......................................$25.00 HANDS UP COMMUNICATIONS CONTRACT LABOR................................$21.13 HARTMAN, WEDNESDAY A TRAVEL/ TRAINING REIMB.........................$294.34 HARTWIG, LEROY BOUNDARY FENCE CONSTRUCTION .......................$1,500.87 HASTINGS, LACEY N QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 HAWKEYE FIRE & SAFETY OFFICE SUPPLIES............................................$165.35 HEALTHEQUITY INC PAYROLL DEDUCTION.........................................$22,903.28 HEBERT, JENNIFER L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$105.00 HEIDERSCHEIT, KAREN M QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$180.00 HENDRICKS, ANDREA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 HENNING, BROOKE QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$105.00 HP INC LAPTOP & EQUIPMENT................ ..................................................$3,681.98 HROMIDKO, CARA A QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$150.00 HUCK, ANDREW QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 HUCK, MEGAN J QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$60.00 HUFF, ELLA M QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB .......................................................$90.00 HUTCHINS, BRITT QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 HY VEE PRESCRIPTIONS...............$39.72 IMON COMMUNICATIONS INTERNET SERVICE....................................$1,176.66 INFORMATICS INC WEB HOSTING ........... ..................................................$1,800.00 INGALLS, TRACY TRAVEL/TRAINING REIMB...........................................$253.07 INSIGHT PUBLIC SECTOR SOFTWARE LICENSES........................................$183.68 IOWA APPLIANCE CENTER INC MISC EQUIPMENT REPAIR & MAINT.......$94.95 IOWA COUNTY ATTORNEY'S CASE MNGMT PROJECT TRAINING...............$300.00 IOWA OFFICE OF THE STATE MEDICAL EXAMINER MED EXAM FEES...$48,343.89 IRELAND, SHAWN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 JELLISON, SHEILA M APPEAL TRANSCRIPT...........................................$16.00 JIM SCHROEDER CONSTRUCTION INC PROFESSIONAL SERVICES...$104,171.67 JOHNSON COUNTY - IOWA MED EXAM
SCHEETZ, SAMI P QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$225.00 SCHEFERS, MATTHEW P TRAINING EXPENSE.............................................$33.36 SCHLADER, RYAN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 SCHMID, DYLAN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$105.00 SCHMITT D'AMICO, AMY C QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB................................$90.00 SCHULTE, KELLY TRAVEL/TRAINING RIMB...............................................$21.43 SCROGGINS, NINA TRAVEL/TRAINING REIMB.............................................$56.16 SHAMROCK APARTMENTS GENERAL ASSISTANCE.....................................$550.00 SHOVER, CHAD QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$75.00 SIEBRECHT, CAROLYN PASSPORT TRAINING.....................................$247.53 SMITH, CHRISTOPHER W QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$180.00 SMS POWER TRAIN AND HARDWARE BLADES - HARDWARE..................$623.12 ST LUKES WORK WELL SOLUTIONS PRE EMPLOYMENT PHYSICAL............$370.00 STEELE, KELLY D ATTORNEY FEES........... .....................................................$170.00 STEINES, DEREK QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$195.00 STEPHENS, JULIE QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 STIVERS FORD LINCOLN FORD INTERCEPTOR SUV...........................$48,504.00 2026 F-150 POLICE RESPONDERS .......... ................................................$62,885.30 T MOBILE USA INC E911 CELL SERVICE.. ..................................................$2,546.80 T&M SERVICES MOVING SERVICE........... ................................................$10,475.00 TAYLOR CONSTRUCTION INC BRIDGE WORK....................................$359,288.00 TAYLOR, CASEY GENERAL ASSISTANCE.. .....................................................$604.00 TAYLOR, TODD QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 TENNEY, GAIL M QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 THE RARE GROUP SPEAKERS FEES ........ .....................................................$150.00 THIELEN, DAVID QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 THINK SAFE INC PAD PAK REPLACEMENT ..................................................$1,125.00 TRINITY SERVICES GROUP INC INMATE WEEKLY MEALS ......................$15,454.60 TW TRAINING CORE VALUES....$3,600.00 UNGS, CHARLES QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 UNIFORM DEN INC UNIFORMS....$689.18 UNIVERSITY OF IOWA - STATE HYGIENIC LABORATORY WATER LAB TESTS............. ..................................................$1,249.00 VALIC/AIG RETIREMENT PAYROLL DEDUCTION.................................$39,299.46 VANDEUSEN, LARRY E GENERAL ASSISTANCE...........................................$900.00 VANHAMME, JARED QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 VERIZON WIRELESS E911 CELL SERVICE .......................................................$60.03 VISION SERVICE PLAN (CITY ASSESSOR) PAYROLL DEDUCTION..................$257.23 VISION SERVICE PLAN (COUNTY) PAYROLL DEDUCTION...................$10,598.94 VOLZ, JOSHUA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 VON SPRECKEN, TRACY A FITNESS REIMBURSEMENT..............................$90.00 WARFIELD, MATTHEW QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$105.00 WATERS, TRAVIS QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 WATKINSON, CHAD QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 WAZOWSKI CAPITAL INVESTMENTS (GOLDFINCH MEADOWS) GENERAL ASSISTANCE.....................................$718.29 WEAVER, AMY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB .....................................................$225.00 WEBER STONE CO INC ROCK....$2,729.54 WEBER, ALISHA MED EXAM FEES............ ..................................................$9,386.45 WEHR PLLC, MELISSA HEALTH ASSISTANCE...........................................$323.22 WELLMARK BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD - CA PAYROLL DEDUCTION.......... ................................................$26,397.86 WENDLING QUARRIES INC ROCK............. ..................................................$6,884.28 WERY, JUDITH QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB .....................................................$120.00 WILLIAMS, SARAH QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 WITZBERGER, GLORIA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$105.00 WOLFORD, ELENA QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 WORKSPACE INC FURNITURE.................. ..............................................$140,160.96 ZAHN-HOUSER MD, ARLEEN A MED EXAM FEES................................$2,035.00 TOTAL.................................$3,811,356.67 Published in the Sun October 15, 2026.
FEES..............................................$738.61 JONES CO / IOWA AUDITOR MED EXAM FEES..............................................$225.00 JULIN PRINTING COMPANY INC OFFICE SUPPLIES.....................................$102.96 KELLEY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT GENERAL ASSISTANCE.......................$780.00 KELLEY, CAROLYN A TRAVEL/TRAINING REIMB...........................................$158.46 KELLEY, JERAD QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 KEPHART, DAVID W QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 KETELS, BRADLEY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$150.00 KIECKS UNIFORMS......................$102.00 KINDL, VICTORIA A QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 KING CONSTRUCTION & OVERHEAD DOOR INC CONTRACT LABOR...$4,977.39 KING'S MATERIAL INC CONCRETE............ ..................................................$1,164.38 KIRKWOOD ESTATES GENERAL ASSISTANCE...........................................$825.00 KROB, NOAH QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.. .......................................................$90.00 L & L MURPHY ASSOCIATES CONSULTING SERVICES.........................$10,416.65 LEAR, WILHELM ERICH QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$105.00 LIENTZ, STEPHANIE QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 LINCOLN NATL LIFE INSURANCE PAYROLL DEDUCTION........................$100.00 LINDALE MANOR MHP LLC GENERAL ASSISTANCE.....................................$344.16 LINDEMAN LAW ATTORNEY FEES............. .....................................................$680.00 LINN COOP OIL INC #395000 (CONSERVATION) DRONE SPRAYING.........$575.85 LINN COOP OIL INC #395050 (ROADS MISC) DIESEL..........................$10,835.88 LINN COUNTY RECORDER POLARIS REGISTRATION .....................................$18.50 LOWDER JR, PHILIP J QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 MADISON NATL LIFE - LTD/STD PAYROLL DEDUCTION.............................$18,199.66 MADISON NATL LIFE (CITY ASSR LTD) PAYROLL DEDUCTION..................$363.12 MADISON NATL LIFE INS CO INC PAYROLL DEDUCTION...................$12,515.23 MARTELLE COOP TELEPHONE ASSN E911 - TWO TRUNKS INTO CENTRAL OFFICE ...............................................$63.24 MARTIN MARIETTA MATERIALS INC ROCK............................................$403.73 MARX, BECKY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB .....................................................$105.00 MASTERS TELECOM LLC PARTS.............. .....................................................$124.00 MATTESON, CARA L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 MCELMEEL, STEVEN L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB................................$90.00 MCKNIGHT, CAMERON C QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$140.00 MEDEA INC NARCAN FOR VENDING MACHINES......................................$3,000.00 MERCY MEDICAL CENTER PRE EMPLOYMENT PHYSICALS.....................$1,476.00 MEYER, CASEY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 MIDAMERICAN ENERGY UTILITIES.......... .....................................................$201.79 MIDAMERICAN ENERGY - ASSISTANCE GENERAL ASSISTANCE................$141.49 MIMG CLXXII RETREAT ON 6TH LLC GENERAL ASSISTANCE.......................$900.00 MOSS, JACOB J QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 MOYNA MATERIALS LLC ROCK................ ..................................................$1,261.62 NACO ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES ....... ..................................................$4,606.00 NBI ENGINEERING SERVICES LLC BRIDGE INSPECTIONS............$29,674.90 NEMMERS, ANTHONY QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 NICHOLS, CHARLES QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$75.00 NORTHLAND PRODUCTS CO SOLVENT CLEANING SERVICES...................$311.45 OAKLEY FERTILIZER INC SALT.................. ................................................$11,812.66 OBERBRECKLING, THOMAS QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB................................$90.00 O'CONNOR, HEATHER QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 OLESON, BRENT QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$240.00 OLTMANN, MATTHEW TRAINING EXPENSE.............................................$31.35 OMNILINK SYSTEMS INC RADIO EQUIPMENT RENTAL...........................$2,496.75 ORKIN LLC PEST CONTROL.........$428.78 OSHEL, DERIC E QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$135.00 OUTDOOR RECREATION PRODUCTS PLAYGROUND REPAIR .............$2,669.20 P&K MIDWEST INC PARTS.......$1,076.33 PACIFIC BLUE PROPERTIES LLC GENERAL ASSISTANCE............................$900.00 PARKS, LOREN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$210.00 TRAVEL/TRAINING REIMB.........$2,912.68 PAVELKA, MATTHEW QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 PAYNE, TIMOTHY CLOTHING ALLOWANCE...............................................$67.93 PERFORMANCE FOODSERVICE LLC FOOD & PROVISIONS................$2,903.57 PETERSON, DUSTIN L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$150.00 PEYTON, KRISTEN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 PIERCE, BRANDON QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$240.00 PIPE PRO INC TESTING & INSPECTIONS.. .....................................................$750.00 POWERS, SCOTT R QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 PROFESSIONAL HEALTH SERVICES PC MED EXAM FEES.......................$1,110.00 PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SERVICES OCTOBER RENEWAL NOTICES.........$10,523.87 QUALITY CLEANING EQUIPMENT REPAIRS...........................................$152.17 RECTOR, KENT QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$165.00 REDDISH, GARRET QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$180.00 REGAL TOWNHOMES GENERAL ASSISTANCE...........................................$900.00 REU, JOSEPH QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB .....................................................$120.00 RINDERKNECHT, DEVIN QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$180.00 RONEY, MECHELLE QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$120.00 RSTOM, JONATHAN A QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB...........................................$225.00 RUFFRIDGE, DORIS J GENERAL ASSISTANCE...........................................$600.00 SABIN, JOSHUA L QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB.............................................$90.00 SANDVICK, MATTHEW QTR1 CELL PHONE REIMB..............................$165.00 SANITY SOLUTIONS INC TECHNICAL SERVICES.....................................$223.03
NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION
PUBLIC NOTICE is given that the Primary Elections for the County of Linn, State of Iowa will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. All qualified electors of Linn County are hereby notified to appear at their assigned poll location on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, request an absentee ballot, or vote early. The polls will be open from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM. To find the assigned polling location for an address in Linn County and the associated sample ballot, go to www.LinnCountyElections. org/lookup or call 319-892-5300, opt 1. POLLING PLACES All Linn County precincts and their current poll locations are listed below. Verify your precinct and assigned polling place using the Linn County Elections Lookup tool: www.LinnCountyElections.org/lookup or call the Elections Office at 319-8925300, opt 1. Cedar Rapids Precinct Name Polling Place - Address Cedar Rapids 01 Community of Christ - 1500 Blairs Ferry Rd., Hiawatha Cedar Rapids 02 Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 6621 C Ave NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 03 Noelridge Christian Church - 7111 C Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 04 FaithLife Lutheran Church - 8300 C Ave. NE, Marion Cedar Rapids 05 Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 6621 C Ave NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 06 Peace Christian Church - 6600 C Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 07
Hilton Garden Inn - 4640 N River Blvd NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 08 MMU Graduate Center - 1650 Matterhorn Dr NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 09 Lovely Lane United Methodist Church 2424 42nd St NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 10 Wright Elementary - 1524 Hollywood Blvd NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 11 Christ Episcopal Church - 220 40th St NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 12 Christ Episcopal Church - 220 40th St NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 13 Cedar Rapids Water Admin Bldg - 1111 Shaver Rd NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 14 Knights of Columbus Council 909 - 1620 E Ave NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 15 Buffalo United Methodist Church - 1000 30th St NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 16 Trailside Elementary - 320 27th St NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 17 Washington High School - 2205 Forest Dr SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 18 Knights of Columbus Council 909 - 1620 E Ave NE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 19 Educational Leadership & Support Center - 2500 Edgewood Rd. NW Cedar Rapids 20 Northwest Recreation Center - 1340 11th St NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 21 Maple Grove Elementary - 1300 38th St NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 22 Monarch Room at Teahens - 3100 F Ave NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 23 Northwest Recreation Center - 1340 11th St NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 24 First Lutheran Church - 1000 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 25 Westminster Presbyterian Church - 1285 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 26 Bethany Lutheran Church - 2202 Forest DR SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 27 Erskine Elementary - 600 36th St SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 28 All Saints Catholic Church - 720 29th St. SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 29 Cedar Hills Community Church - 6455 E Avenue NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 30 West Willow Elementary - 6225 1st Ave NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 31 IBEW Local 405 Union Hall - 1211 Wiley Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 32 IBEW Local 405 Union Hall - 1211 Wiley Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 33 Cleveland Elementary - 2200 1st Ave NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 34 Central Church of Christ - 1500 1st Ave NW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 35 Imon Cedar Rapids Ice Arena - 1100 Rockford Rd SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 36 Cedar Rapids Downtown Library - 450 5th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 37 Linn County Harris Building - 1020 6th St SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 38 St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church - 610 31st St. SE, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 39 Cedar Rapids Moose Lodge 304/515 1820 West Post Rd. SW, C.R. Cedar Rapids 40 Salem United Methodist Church - 3715 33rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 41 C.R. Library – Busse Branch – 1845 Sandberg Lane, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 42 Linn County Community Services Bldg 1240 26th Avenue Ct. SW Cedar Rapids 43 St. Ludmila Catholic Church - 211 21st Ave SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 44 Hope Lutheran Church - 2736 Bowling St SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 45 Hope Lutheran Church - 2736 Bowling St SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 4 C.R. Moose Lodge 304/515 - 1820 West Post Rd. SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 47 Salem United Methodist Church - 3715 33rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids 48 Grant Wood Area Education Agency 4401 6th Street SW, C.R. Cedar Rapids 49 Kirkwood Comm. College - Rec Center 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, C.R. Cedar Rapids 50 Kirkwood Comm. College - Rec Center 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, C.R. Cedar Rapids 51 College Community School District Office - 401 76th Ave. SW, C.R. Marion Precinct Name Polling Place - Address Marion 01 Christ Community Church - 3000 Alburnett Rd., Marion Marion 02 Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center 4500 N. 10th St., Marion Marion 03 Linn-Mar Educational Leadership Center 3556 Winslow Rd, Marion Marion 04 Indian Creek Elementary - 2900 Indian Creek Rd, Marion Marion 05 Boulder Peak Intermediate School - 3920 35th Ave, Marion Marion 06 New Life Community Church - 275 W 29th Ave, Marion Marion 07 Marion Christian Church - 1050 McGowan Blvd., Marion Marion 08 Boulder Peak Intermediate School - 3920 35th Ave, Marion
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | 13 Marion 09 Linn Grove Elementary - 2301 50th St, Marion Marion 10 Marion First United Methodist Church 5050 Rec Dr., Marion Marion 11 Marion Public Library - 1101 6th Ave, Marion Marion 12 Marion Public Library - 1101 6th Ave, Marion Marion 13 Longfellow Elementary - 2900 8th Ave, Marion Marion 14 American Legion Post - 298 625 31st St, Marion Marion 15 Gospel Light Baptist Church - 305 2nd Ave, Marion Marion 16 Grace Baptist Church - 1461 E Post Rd, Marion Marion 17 Ascension Lutheran Church - 2210 Grand Ave., Marion Marion 18 American Legion Post 298 - 625 31st St, Marion Metro Area Precinct Name Polling Place - Address Fairfax Fairfax City Hall - Community Room - 300 80th Street Ct., Fairfax Hiawatha 01 Hiawatha Public Library - 150 W. Willman St, Hiawatha Hiawatha 02 Hiawatha Community Center - 101 Emmons St., Hiawatha Hiawatha 03 Hiawatha Community Center - 101 Emmons St., Hiawatha Robins Community Savings Bank - 101 Robins Square Ct, Robins Linn County Precinct Name Polling Place - Address Bertram TWP Camp Tanager - 1614 W Mt Vernon Rd, Mt Vernon Boulder - Buffalo Prairieburg City Hall - 109 W Main St., Prairieburg Brown - Linn Springville Memorial Library - 264 Broadway St., Springville Clinton TWP Cedar Hills Community Church - 6455 E Avenue NW, Cedar Rapids Fairfax TWP Fairfax Public Library - 313 Vanderbilt St, Fairfax Fayette TWP Palo City Hall & Community Center - 2800 Hollenbeck Rd., Palo Franklin TWP Lisbon City Hall - 115 N. Washington St., Lisbon Grant TWP Walker North Pavilion - 398 Park St, Walker Jackson TWP Coggon Public Library - 202 E. Main St, Coggon Maine TWP Falcon Civic Center - 137 4th St. N, Central City Marion TWP 01 Marion First United Methodist Church 5050 Rec Dr., Marion Marion TWP 02 Wanatee Park - 1600 Banner Dr, Marion Monroe TWP 01 King of Kings Lutheran Church - 3275 N. Center Point Rd., Cedar Rapids Monroe TWP 02 Community of Christ - 1500 Blairs Ferry Rd., Hiawatha Mount Vernon 01 Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church 212 7th St. SE, Mount Vernon Mount Vernon 02 Mount Vernon City Hall - 213 1st St. NW, Mount Vernon Otter Creek TWP Alburnett Fire Station - 405 Roosevelt St, Alburnett Putnam TWP St. John Lutheran Church - 1420 Walker St, Ely Spring Grove TWP North Linn High School - 3033 Lynx Dr, Walker Washington TWP Center Point Public Library - 720 Main St, Center Point In accordance with Iowa Administrative Code 721-21.50(10), the following polling places may be described as inaccessible per Election ADA requirements: Community Savings Bank, Education Leadership & Support Center, Erskine Elementary, Fairfax Public Library, New Life Community Church, Wanatee Park, Washington High School, West Willow Elementary, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Monarch Room at Teahens, Hope Lutheran Church, St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, IBEW Local 405 Union Hall, Grace Baptist Church, and Refuge City Church. Any voter who is physically unable to enter a polling place has the right to vote in the voter’s vehicle. For further information, please contact the county auditor’s office at (319) 892-5300 or elections@linncountyiowa.gov. For TTY access, dial 711 +319-892-5300. PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION AT THE POLLS All voters will be required to present an approved form of identification. Voters who cannot provide an approved form of identification may have their identity attested to by a registered voter residing in the voter’s precinct who has an approved form of identification. Approved forms of identification include: Iowa Driver’s License, Iowa Non-Operator ID, U.S. Military ID or Veteran ID, U.S. Passport, Iowa Voter Identification Card, or Tribal ID Card/ Document. For additional information about voter identification visit sos.iowa. gov/voterid or phone (319) 892-5300. ELECTION DAY REGISTRATION The pre-registration deadline for the General Election is Monday, October 19, 2026 at 5 p.m. After this date, voters wanting to register to Vote Early before Election Day or at the polls on Election Day may do so by showing proof of residence and identity that is not more than 45-days expired. A photo ID is necessary for proof of identification. The following items are valid as proof of residence (document must show the voter’s address and the voter’s name): residential lease, property tax statement, utility bill (cell phone bill included), bank statement, paycheck, government check or other government
document.
ABSENTEE VOTING Voters requesting absentee ballots by mail or in-person are required to include their Driver’s License or Non-Operator ID number on the Absentee Ballot Request form. Alternatively, a four-digit voter ID pin number may be used. Pin number may be requested by calling the Auditors office: (319) 892-5300. Requests for mailed absentee ballots must be received by Monday, October 19, 2026 at 5 p.m. Mailing of ballots will begin on October 14, 2026. EARLY VOTING In-Person Absentee Voting may be done at 935 2nd St SW, Cedar Rapids from October 16 through November 2, 2026: 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on business days and Saturday, October 31, 2026 will be open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. SATELLITE VOTING The following satellite voting locations have been petitioned for the 2026 General Election. The schedule set by the Auditor’s office is as follows: Lindale Mall 4444 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids - Prior American Eagle Outfitters storefront October 14 - November 1 Tuesday through Saturday: 11 a.m. 6:30 p.m. Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Cedar Rapids Public Library - Downtown 450 5th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids Saturday, October 17: 10:00 a.m 4:00 p.m. Sunday, October 18: 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Cedar Rapids Public Library – Busse Branch- 1845 Sandberg Ln, Cedar Rapids Saturday, October 24: 10:00 a.m 4:00 p.m. Sunday, October 25: 1:30 p.m - 4:30 p.m. Coe College - Lower Gage - College Drive NE, Cedar Rapids Tuesday, October 20: 10:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m. Marion Public Library - 1101 6th Ave, Marion Monday, October 26: 9:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m. Cornell College - SAW Center - 835 1st St W, Mt. Vernon Wednesday, October 28: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. PUBLIC TEST OF ELECTIONS EQUIPMENT Public testing of voting equipment began on October 6, 2026 at 8 a.m. at 823 3rd St SW, Cedar Rapids and the basement of the Public Service Center at 935 2nd St. SW, Cedar Rapids. This notice is given pursuant to Section 49.53 and 49.23, Code of Iowa and by order of the Linn County Commissioner of Elections. For additional information on how to participate in the General Election, please contact Linn County Election Services at telephone number 319-892-5300 or e-mail elections@linncounty.org. CANDIDATES Candidates are listed in the order they will appear on the ballots for voters in the respective parties. FEDERAL OFFICES A ballot cast for the named candidates for president and vice president of the United States is considered to be cast for the slate of presidential electors nominated by the political party, nonparty political organization, or independent candidate. U.S. Senator Ashley Hinson Republican Party Josh Turek Democratic Party Thomas Laehn Libertarian Party U.S. Representative District 2 (Vote for one) Joe Mitchell Republican Party Lindsay James Democratic Party Rick Stewart Libertarian Party Dave Bushaw <No Party Affiliation> STATE OFFICES Governor/Lieutenant Governor Zach Lahn / Derek Wulf Republican Party Rob Sand / Dave Muhlbauer Democratic Party Secretary of State Paul Pate Republican Party Ryan Peterman Democratic Party Auditor of State Chris Cournoyer Republican Party Taylor Wettach Democratic Party Treasurer of State Roby Smith Republican Party John Norwood Democratic Party Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig Republican Party Chris Jones Democratic Party Attorney General Brenna Bird Republican Party Nate Willems Democratic Party State Senator District 37 Randy Marzen Republican Party Molly Donahue Democratic Party State Senator District 39 Edward Bernie Hayes Republican Party Liz Bennet Democratic Party State Representative District 73 Elizabeth Wilson Democratic Party State Representative District 74 Eric Gjerde Democratic Party State Representative District 77 Jeff Cooling Democratic Party State Representative District 78 Angel Ramirez Democratic Party State Representative District 79 Barclay Woerner Republican Party Tracy Ehlert Democratic Party State Representative District 80 Aime J. Wichtendahl Democratic Party State Representative District 83 Cindy Golding Republican Party Mike Bergman Democratic Party State Representative District 84 Thomas Gerhold Republican Party Polly Denison Democratic Party COUNTY OFFICES Board of Supervisors District 1 Kirsten Running-Marquardt Democratic Party Board of Supervisors District 2 Rex W. Meyer Republican Party Sami Scheetz Democratic Party County Treasurer Paul Talley Republican Party Brent C. Oleson Democratic Party County Recorder Carolyn Siebrecht Democratic Party County Attorney Nicholas G. Maybanks Democratic Party NON-PARTISAN OFFICES Township Trustee Boulder Township (Vote for no more than 1) <Write-in Candidates Only> Township Clerk Boulder Township (Vote for no more than 1) <Write-in Candidates Only> Township Trustee Brown Township (Vote for no more than 1)
PUBLIC NOTICES/NEWS
14 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 <Write-in Candidates Only> Township Clerk Brown Township (Vote for no more than 1) <Write-in Candidates Only> Township Trustee Buffalo Township (Vote for no more than 1) <No Candidates - Write-Ins Only> Township Clerk Buffalo Township (Vote for no more than 1) <No Candidates - Write-Ins Only> Township Trustee Grant Township (Vote for no more than 1) Larry D. Bridgewater Township Clerk Grant Township (Vote for no more than 1) Yvette Bridgewater Township Trustee Jackson Township (Vote for no more than 1) <No Candidates - Write-Ins Only> Township Clerk Jackson Township (Vote for no more than 1) <No Candidates - Write-Ins Only> Township Trustee Maine Township (Vote for no more than 1) <No Candidates - Write-Ins Only> Township Clerk Maine Township Wesley Nelson Township Trustee Otter Creek Township (Vote for no more than 1) Ron Hoover Township Clerk Otter Creek Township (Vote for no more than 1) Ginny Maier Township Trustee Putnam Township (Vote for no more than 1) Butch Wieneke Township Clerk Putnam Township (Vote for no more than 1) Elli Netolicky
Township Trustee Spring Grove Township (Vote for no more than 1) Bert Aberle Township Trustee Spring Grove Township (Vote for no more than 1) Dawn Aberle County Agricultural Extension Council (Vote for no more than 5) Kim Bowen Kevin Bruns Jennifer Dunn JaLea Horning Kassandra Rice Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioner (Vote for no more than 2) Joshua O’Connell Emmaly Renshaw Sean Stokes JUDICIAL (Vote for retention Yes/No) Court of Appeals John M. Sandy Julie A. Schumacher Sharon Soorholtz Greer District 6 Judges Michael Harris Mark Fisher Jason D. Besler District 6 Associate Judges Kristin Schneider Casey D. Jones Angie Johnston CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT Shall the following amendment to the Constitution be adopted? 1
The Constitution of the State of Iowa is amended by adding the following new section to new Article XIII: Passage of a bill that increases the individual income tax rate or the corporate income tax rate, or the rate of any other type of tax based upon income or legal and special reserves, shall require the affirmative votes of at least two-thirds of the members elected to each house of the general assembly. This requirement does not apply to taxes imposed at the option of a local government. Passage of a bill that establishes a new tax on any type of income or legal and special reserves imposed by the state shall require the affirmative votes of at least two-thirds of the member elected to each house of the general assembly. A lawsuit challenging the proper enactment of a bill under this section must be filed no later than one year following the enactment. If such a lawsuit is not filed within the one-year limit, the bill shall be considered properly enacted under this section. Each bill to which this section applies must include a separate provision describing the requirements for enactment prescribed by this section. The general assembly shall enact laws to implement this section. PUBLIC MEASURES Public Measure NC Shall Kirkwood Community College (Merged Area X) in the Counties of Benton, Black Hawk, Buchanan, Cedar, Clinton, Delaware, Dubuque, Iowa, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Jones, Keokuk, Linn, Louisa, Poweshiek, Tama, and Washington, be authorized to renovate, improve,
erect, and equip facilities to modernize learning spaces with an emphasis on health sciences, industrial technologies, agricultural sciences, and business and information technology, contract indebtedness therefor, and issue General Obligation Bonds in an amount not exceeding $88,000,000 for those purposes? Public Measure D Shall the City of Cedar Rapids, State of Iowa, issue its General Obligation Bonds or Capital Loan Notes in an amount not exceeding the amount of $60,000,000, in one or more series, for the purpose of paying costs of designing, constructing, reconstructing, enlarging, improving, equipping and furnishing fire stations and emergency response facilities, with related site improvements, consistent with the Cedar Rapids Fire Department Facility Plan, including but not limited to a new training facility, relocating Stations 2 and 8, remodeling Stations 4 and 9, rebuilding Stations 5 and 6, and the acquisition of real estate therefor, and acquiring new fire trucks and related emergency response equipment? Public Measure E Shall the City of Ely, in Linn County, State of Iowa, enter into a loan agreement and issue general obligation bonds in an amount not exceeding $2,250,000 for the purpose of paying the cost, to that extent, of constructing, furnishing and equipping an expanded municipal library? This notice published by the office of Linn County Auditor in accordance with Iowa Code Section 49.53. Published in the Sun October 15, 2026.
Linn County recognized for financial transparency and reporting The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada has awarded Linn County national awards for excellence in financial reporting for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2025. These awards reflect Linn County's commitment to maintaining excellence in financial management and accountability to taxpayers. For the 37th year, Linn County earned the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), a 130-page
document that details the County’s finances. For the 28th year, Linn County also received the Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting for its Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR). The PAFR is a 12-page summary designed to give residents an easy-to-read overview of how public dollars are collected and spent, along with highlights of the County’s accomplishments and major initiatives of the past year. A panel of impartial judges reviews and scores each report.
Lisbon audit report released Gronewold, Bell, Kyhnn & Co. P.C. CPAs have released an audit report on the City of Lisbon, Iowa. The auditors reported that the City's receipts for its governmental funds totaled $3,188,552 for the year ended June 30, 2026. The receipts included $1,335,416 in property tax, $39,725 in other city taxes, $490,892 in local option sales tax, $175,752 in tax increment financing collections, $950,272 from intergovernmental sources, $40,515 from use of money and property, $13,727 from licenses and permits, $41,401 from
charges for service, and $100,852 in miscellaneous receipts. The City's receipts for its proprietary funds totaled $1,285,484 of which $1,234, 162 was from charges for service, $993 from interest on investments, $26,617 in American Rescue Plan Act awards and $23,712 in miscellaneous receipts. Disbursements for its governmental funds totaled $3,355,793, and included $581,713 for public safety, $371,094 for public works, $505,187 for culture and
According to the Government Finance Officers Association, both awards represent a significant achievement. The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. The award signifies that Linn County demonstrates full disclosure of its finances. Linn County’s ACFR, PAFR, and annual budget are available on Linn County’s website at LinnCountyIowa. gov. recreation, $161,771 in community and economic development, $305,147 in general government, $429,760 for debt service and $1,001,121 for capital projects. Disbursements of the City's proprietary funds totaled $1,224,158, of which $1 was attributable to its business type activities, $118,920 for debt service, and $81,291 for capital projects. This report contains recommendations to the City Council and other City officials. The City has responded that corrective action is being taken for each item. A copy of the audit report is available for review in the office of the Auditor of State and the City Administrator's office.
Food drive door prize giveaway for Together We Achieve Bring food, win prizes: Made in Iowa partners with Together We Achieve for October 17–18 Food Drive 44 vendors donate door prizes to encourage food donations during the Made in Iowa Fall Market and Scarecrow Festival. A few extra items from your pantry can help feed a local family and give you a chance to win prizes. Made in Iowa is partnering with Together We Achieve for a Food Drive Door Prize Giveaway during the Made in Iowa Fall Market and Scarecrow Festival, October 17–18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day at Hawkeye Downs Expo Center. Donate Food. Choose Your Prizes. Visitors can drop off nonperishable food donations with the Together We Achieve team in the lobby. Each donated item earns one door-prize ticket, which shoppers can take to participating vendor booths and
enter for the prizes they want to win. With 44 vendors contributing prizes, visitors have plenty of choices. Tickets can be entered across multiple drawings, with no limit on the number of different prizes a visitor can try to win. The drawing schedule starts at 12:45pm both Saturday and Sunday (see schedule graphic below).
Help Stock Local Pantry Shelves Accepted donations include canned vegetables, fruit, soup and meat; peanut butter; rice; pasta; cereal; oatmeal; and baby food or formula. Donations support Together We Achieve, which helps meet local basic needs through its food pantry and resource center. A complete list of accepted items and participating door-prize vendors is available at ScarecrowFestival.org/ togetherweachieve.
A Fall Weekend of Shopping and Community The food drive joins a weekend featuring 150 vendor stalls offering handmade goods, baked treats, crafts and original art. Visitors can also discover dozens of scarecrows created by vendors and community members, displayed throughout the market and around the building.
Event Details • Event: Made in Iowa Fall Market, Scarecrow Festival and Food Drive Door Prize Giveaway • Dates: Saturday and Sunday, October 17–18, 2026 • Hours: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. both days • Location: Hawkeye Downs Expo Center, 4400 6th St. SW, Cedar Rapids • Admission: $5, available at the door or online
MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN | MVLSUN.COM
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 | 15
Mercy announces Chad W. Towner as next president & CEO Healthcare leader brings 30 years of experience and a strong background in mission-driven healthcare Mercy has selected Chad W. Towner as its next president & CEO following a thorough national search. Towner will join Mercy Oct. 19, 2026, succeeding interim president & CEO Greg DeWolf. Towner brings 30 years of healthcare experience, including nearly two decades in senior executive leadership across Catholic nonprofit Towner and community health systems. His background includes hospital operations, quality improvement, physician alignment, strategic growth, organizational development and community engagement. He began his career as a physical therapist at Lutheran
Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1996. Over the following 20 years, he advanced through several leadership roles, including Chief Operating Officer of St. Joseph Hospital and CEO of Dupont Hospital, both in Fort Wayne. In 2016, he became President and CEO of Saint Joseph Health System and Indiana Market President within Trinity Health. There, he led a Catholic nonprofit regional healthcare ministry encompassing two hospitals, a physician network and a broad continuum of healthcare services. Most recently, he served as CEO of Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital in Warsaw, Indiana. “Mercy is an extraordinary organization with a remarkable history, and I am deeply honored by the trust its Board has placed in me,” Towner said. “What drew me to Mercy was its Catholic mission, its commitment to compassionate, high-quality care and the unmistakable pride of the people I met throughout the interview process. I look forward to listening, building relationships and working alongside Mercy’s physicians, employees, volunteers and
community partners. My responsibility is to honor the foundation that makes Mercy distinctive while helping the organization grow even stronger clinically, financially, culturally and strategically for the generations that follow.” Mercy’s Board of Trustees expressed its appreciation to those who participated in the search process and shared their perspectives and expertise. The Board also thanked Greg DeWolf for his steady, thoughtful leadership as interim president & CEO and for his commitment to the important role he will continue to have at Mercy. “We’re excited to welcome Chad to Mercy,” said Nancy Kasparek, president of Mercy’s Board of Trustees. “His experience, leadership approach and appreciation for mission-driven healthcare aligns well with Mercy’s commitment to our patients, our employees and our communities. We look forward to the next chapter of Mercy’s journey together.” Towner and his wife, Tonya, are excited to relocate to Cedar Rapids and become part of the Mercy family. Together, they have six adult children, one grandson and two miniature Goldendoodles.
Civil War reenactor presents at Adult Speaker series
Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
Barry Grove presented about Iowa's involvement in the Civil War, dressed in a wool uniform with many of the items soldiers may carry throughout their day. Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
Barry Grove, a former educator and long time Civil War reenactor presented at the Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center Thursday, Oct. 8. Grove said when the Civil War started, many thought it would be a war that was over in a short period of time. Both Union and Confederate Armies had soldiers sign-up, with 75,000 enlisting very early on for 90 days of service. The war proved to be a longer affair than 90 days, instead going for four years. Grove said that one of the plans proposed from the Union was an anaconda plan, focusing on control of the Mississippi River and cutting off coastal cities from supplies as a strategy to draw the war to a close.
Grove said there are many causes of what might have started the war including protecting state’s rights and trade. “The point I always try to make with young people is that many of those causes the longer you look at them always tend to come back to slavery,” Grove said. Grove said that the Civil War was one of the deadliest wars Americans have ever participated in, with casualties of more than a million, when you count civilians impacted by the war effort. One of those reasons, he said, was because of the medical care of the day not as advanced as it is today. For every soldier who died on the battlefield, there were another five that died in camp. Grove said that of Union states, Iowa was likely to have had the highest death toll. “There were a lot of good soldiers who enlisted from Iowa, who because we were on the edge of the frontier, were used to operating and living in isolation,” Grove said. Just like in modern warfare, Grove said the ideal age for soldiers was in the 18 to 26 age frame, as that was when soldiers were
at the peak of fitness and wouldn’t ask too many questions. The test for if a soldier was fit ha to do with having healthy teeth and gums, being able to carry 30 or more pounds of equipment on their upper body; having strong feet, knees and ankles; and eyeballs that weren’t jaundiced. On eof the first battles of the Civil War, the Battle of Bull Run, sobered people up to the reality of war. At the time, Confederate Soldiers did not have a uniform color to their attire, which led to many of them suffering friendly fire injuries and death. That’s what, according to Grove, led the adoption of a Navy Blue uniform for Confederate Soldiers. Another aspect that Bull Run introduced the importance of – having a piece of paper or something to help identify a person on their body to avoid being buried in a mass grave. Massachusetts soldiers were some of the first to utilize dog tags, either metal or wooden. Grove then went into is re-enactment as Lewis Baker, a Civil War veteran from Kentucky who is buried in Marion. Baker had signed up early for the war for $13 a month
for three months of service. Grove went through the process Baker would have had to go through to load his musket, and explained how after all that work, the musket was accurate for up to 60 feet. Baker was eventually shot in the back of his hand by a musket ball, and was in a field hospital for two and a half days when he started exhibiting the signs of infection. When he heard they were considering cutting off his arm, Baker deserted camp and found a barn where he stayed for the next two weeks as his body fended off the infection. His worry is what would happen when he returned to camp, only to find the war had just come to an end. Grove then went over the uniforms soldiers might have, which included items like canteens. Union soldiers were more likely to have tin canteens, as nine out of 10 factories in the United States were in
northern states. Eight out of ten dollars were generated in northern states as well. Seven out of 10 men fit for duty were also located in the northern states. One aspect of the war illnesses came when filling water from streams. “Soldiers weren’t boiling or disinfecting water before they filled it, so something like an animal that died near a stream and those bacteria or parasites were in the water ended up in many canteens,” Grove said.
What’s next for LBC Adult Speaker series Today (Thursday, Oct. 15 at 1 p.m.) Understanding Economic Inequality in the US by Todd Knoop - Economic inequality is driving much of our political polarization and social conflict. This presentation focus on two questions. First, how much has economic inequality in the US (and in
other countries) worsened? And second, what can we say about why economic inequality is worsening? Thursday, Oct. 22 at 1 p.m. - Iowa’s Trumpeter Swans: A Conservation Success Story by Anna Buckardt - Trumpeter Swans are an iconic wetland bird in Iowa, but they were missing from the state for over a century. Learn about how the DNR and partners worked to bring swans back to the state in one of Iowa’s epic conservation success stories. Through many years of habitat restoration, captive breeding, and reintroduction, we now have a self-sustaining wild population of breeding trumpeter swans across the state and host thousands of wintering swans each year. Join the state Avian Ecologist to learn more about the comeback of Trumpeter Swans and how we can continue to trumpet the cause for wetlands in Iowa.
NEWS
16 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026
MOUNT VERNON-LISBON SUN | MVLSUN.COM
Lisbon 4-H members bring new life to Pleasant Grove Heritage Park Cadence Dighton Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
sale fundraiser, the club contributed $500 alongside a matching grant from news@mvlsun.com Pioneer Seed. Those funds went toward purchasing the trees. Members of Lisbon's Be Original 4-H Additionally, the Big Grove of Good Club gathered at Pleasant Grove Heritage Foundation’s Micro-Grant program Park on Saturday, Oct. 10, to plant trees contributed $700, and private donations to replace ones lost in recent years. were received from Steve McElmeel, Among the club members on Saturday Robert and Marianne Zahorik, Michele were their leaders and family members, McElmeel and Ron Pierce. as well as Tom Apel and Pleasant Grove Pleasant Grove Heritage Park would Heritage Park board members. Together, like to extend special thanks to Jonah everyone involved planted 14 new trees Light for providing his post-hole auger along the road and near the barns. and skid loader to help lighten the According to Ann Opatz, a volunteer workload, as well as to Andy Light, at Pleasant Grove Heritage Park, the an assistant 4-H leader, and Michele planting was done with hopes to restore McElmeel, both for their leadership. the landscape, provide additional shade and contribute to the long-term health Cadence Dighton is a junior in and beauty of the bark. the University of Iowa’s School of Donations for the project came from Journalism and Mass Communication. many sources, the Be Original 4-H Club Cadence is an intern with the Mount being one of them. From its annual fruit Vernon-Lisbon Sun.
Top: 4-H members listen as Andy Light explains the tree planting process at Pleasant Grove Heritage Park in Lisbon Oct. 12, 2026. Above: Ty Hofmeister, Hollis Whitman, Harrison Sporrer and Sam Dietsch smile for a photo at the tree planting ceremony at Pleasant Grove Heritage Park in Lisbon Oct. 12, 2026.
Photos by Cadence Dighton | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
Left: Jenna Dains, Briggs Hofmeister, Harrison Sporrer, Andy Light and Kyle Sporrer plant a tree at the tree planting ceremony at Pleasant Grove Heritage Park in Lisbon Oct. 12, 2026. Above: Harrison Sporrer jumps in a hole to compact the dirt at the tree planting ceremony at Pleasant Grove Heritage Park in Lisbon Oct. 12, 2026. Right: Brant Von Behren and Riley Resor work together to plant a tree. Below: 4-H members pay attention as Jenna Dains of Kelly Tree Farm demonstrates part of the tree planting process.